Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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What hormonal change is primarily assessed in the investigation of menopause?

Estrogen levels
Progesterone levels
Luteinizing hormone (LH) levels
Testosterone levels

The correct answer is: Luteinizing hormone (LH) levels

In the investigation of menopause, the primary hormonal change that is assessed is the level of Luteinizing Hormone (LH). As women approach menopause, there is a decline in the levels of estrogen produced by the ovaries. This decrease triggers the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to increase their production of hormones such as LH and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in an attempt to stimulate the ovaries. During menopause, the persistent low levels of estrogen lead to elevated levels of LH, which reflect the body's response to the decreasing ovarian function. High LH levels, together with high FSH levels, are indicative of the menopausal transition and can help confirm the diagnosis of menopause when evaluated alongside clinical symptoms. While estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle and decline during menopause, they are not the primary focus when diagnosing menopause. Testosterone levels are also not a key factor in the assessment of menopause. Therefore, the focus on LH levels is crucial in understanding the hormonal changes that occur during this stage of a woman's life.