Menopause: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
A 51-year-old female presents with irregular periods, hot flashes, and trouble sleeping. She has not had a menstrual period for over a year. Which of the following lab findings would best support a diagnosis of menopause?
A. Decreased FSH, increased estradiol
B. Normal FSH, normal estradiol
C. Increased FSH, increased estradiol
D. Increased FSH, decreased estradiol
E. None of the above
Answer and topic summary
The answer is D. Increased FSH, decreased estradiol
Menopause is characterized by a lack of menstrual periods in women who have had amenorrhea for over 1 year. Clinical features include hot flashes, sleep disturbances, depression, vaginal dryness, and cognitive dysfunction (memory loss, hard to concentrate). Lab studies may show an increase in FSH (due to lack of negative feedback) and a decrease in estradiol. This is due to the loss of ovarian follicular function that occurs. Two major long-term consequences of menopause include (1) an increased risk for coronary artery disease and (2) osteoporosis. Both of these are thought to be due to the loss of estrogen. Management of menopause involves hormone replacement therapy.
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