Follicle stimulating hormone is secreted by -

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2023

Explanation

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a gonadotropin hormone produced and secreted by the gonadotrope cells within the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland.
Its secretion is regulated by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus.
In females, FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles. In males, it is essential for stimulating spermatogenesis.
The anterior pituitary is responsible for producing several key hormones that regulate various endocrine functions throughout the body.

Option B: The posterior pituitary does not synthesize hormones; it only stores and releases Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) and Oxytocin, which are produced in the hypothalamus.
Option C: The ovary is the target organ for FSH. It contains the follicles that FSH stimulates. The ovary itself secretes hormones like estrogen and progesterone in response to FSH and LH.
Option D: The corpus luteum is a temporary structure that forms from the ovarian follicle after ovulation. Its primary function is to secrete progesterone (and some estrogen) to maintain the uterine lining.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Hormonal regulation by the pituitary gland as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Measuring FSH levels is a key diagnostic tool in reproductive medicine. It helps nurses and doctors assess a patient's ovarian reserve, investigate menstrual irregularities, and diagnose infertility in both men and women.
Abnormal FSH levels can indicate pituitary disorders or primary gonadal failure.
Patient education is crucial. A nurse may need to explain the significance of FSH test results to a patient undergoing fertility treatment, clarifying what high or low levels might mean for their condition.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'Follicle stimulating hormone' (FSH).
Recall the major glands of the endocrine system and the hormones they produce. FSH is a key reproductive hormone.
Associate FSH with the 'master gland,' the pituitary gland. Remember that the pituitary has two distinct lobes: anterior and posterior.
Differentiate the functions of the anterior and posterior pituitary. The anterior pituitary is a major production center for many hormones (FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, etc.), while the posterior pituitary primarily releases hormones made in the hypothalamus (ADH, oxytocin).
Eliminate the other options. The ovary and corpus luteum are targets of FSH and LH, not the source of FSH.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QZVHPAFtSDml0aYQ-yRzWT

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 1164-1166

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 895-897

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