BIOS 256 Week 6 Case Study: Reproductive System Required Resources

Student Name

Chamberlain University

BIOS-256: Anatomy & Physiology IV with Lab

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Date

Week 6 Case Study: Reproductive System

Scenario/Summary

A 26-year-old woman presents with a history of not having menstrual periods for the past 3 months. She is not using any contraception. Her physical examination reveals a BMI of 28, indicating that she is overweight. Additionally, she has moderate acne on her face and an increased amount of dark hair above her lips and on her chest. Laboratory results show a negative pregnancy test, normal prolactin, FSH, and thyroid tests, but mildly elevated levels of LH and testosterone. The diagnosis is consistent with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that causes hirsutism (excessive hair growth), anovulation (lack of ovulation), and infrequent menstrual cycles.

Estrogen and its Effects on the Body

Estrogen is a crucial hormone that affects several aspects of the body. One of its primary functions is to regulate the menstrual cycle, which involves stimulating the growth of egg follicles in the ovaries. Estrogen also plays a role in the reproductive tract, particularly in the uterus, where it enhances and maintains the mucous membranes lining the uterine walls. In addition, estrogen regulates the flow and consistency of uterine mucus secretions, contributing to the overall health of the reproductive system. The hormone is also essential for the formation of breast tissue and halting milk production after weaning.

Testosterone and its Effects on the Body

Testosterone is important for maintaining male reproductive health, including the production of sperm and libido. It also promotes muscle development by stimulating protein synthesis while preventing protein breakdown, which results in muscular hypertrophy. Testosterone has an additional role in enhancing iron utilization for erythropoiesis (production of red blood cells) by activating erythropoietin (EPO) and adjusting its set point in relation to hemoglobin levels. The hormone works in concert with luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to regulate sperm production in men. Balancing testosterone and FSH levels is vital for the proper functioning of the reproductive system.

Consequences of Anovulation and its Effect on the Endometrial Lining

Anovulation, or the lack of ovulation, can lead to subfertility, as ovulation is essential for conception. Without ovulation, the endometrial lining becomes affected because there is no hormonal trigger to initiate shedding. As a result, estrogen builds up, leading to the thickening of the endometrial lining. This thickening can result in abnormal uterine bleeding, which may be unpredictable or excessive. The absence of regular shedding increases the risk of developing conditions like endometrial hyperplasia or even endometrial cancer.

The Role of Prolactin and Symptoms of High Prolactin Levels

Prolactin is a hormone primarily involved in milk production after childbirth. A prolactin test is commonly used to diagnose prolactinomas, which are pituitary tumors that may disrupt the normal production of prolactin. Elevated prolactin levels can cause menstrual irregularities or infertility in women. Common symptoms of high prolactin levels include irregular or absent periods, infertility, milky discharge from the breasts (galactorrhea), loss of libido, and pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse due to vaginal dryness. In men, elevated prolactin may lead to symptoms such as reduced libido and erectile dysfunction.

Additional Problems Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. In addition to irregular menstrual cycles and elevated androgen levels (leading to hirsutism), women with PCOS may experience other complications. These can include acne, thinning hair, and male-pattern baldness. Women with PCOS may also struggle with weight gain or find it difficult to lose weight. Another common symptom is darkening of the skin, particularly around the neck, in the groin, and under the breasts. Women with PCOS may also develop small, excess skin growths, known as skin tags, around the armpits or neck area.

References

England, C. N. (2021). Anovulation. Women & Infants. Retrieved August 10, 2021, from https://fertility.womenandinfants.org/services/women/anovulation

Estrogen’s Effects on the Female Body. (2021). Johns Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved August 10, 2021, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/estrogens-effects-on-the-female-body

Prolactinoma. (2021, August 10). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/prolactinoma