Question

A 20-year-old, obese female has stopped menstruating (amenorrhea) and has gained 30 pounds during the past six months. her hair distribution has begun to acquire the characteristics of those of a male. how would you describe these symptoms? identify appropriate symptoms

Answer 1

The symptoms given may be a manifestation of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is a common endocrine system disease among females.

Symptoms are the following:

1. Menstrual disorders: oligomenorrhea (irregular period) or amenorrhea (cessation of period), which start around the time of the first period (menarche)

2. Infertility: which results from anovulation (ovaries are unable to release an egg cell during ovulation)

3. Obesity: at least 40% of females with PCOS are obese

4. Hirsutism (excessive body hair where hair is usually minimal or absent): big amount of masculinizing hormones in women with PCOS may cause hirsutism