Final answer:
Follicular occlusion syndrome is not directly explained in the provided information, but the process of folliculogenesis and conditions such as PCOS, which involve the function and health of ovarian follicles, are discussed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Follicular occlusion syndrome is not directly mentioned in the provided reference information. However, the related processes of folliculogenesis, ovulation, and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are discussed. To clarify, folliculogenesis is the maturation process of ovarian follicles, which grows and develops in cycles typically leading to the ovulation of a dominant follicle. The dominant follicle's maturity is stimulated by the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) while the remaining follicles undergo atresia, a form of cell death. Polycystic ovary syndrome, which may sometimes be confused with follicular occlusion syndrome due to the presence of multiple ovarian cysts, is a condition where multiple cysts form because follicles fail to ovulate properly. Conditions like these affect hormonal balance, menstrual cycle, and fertility.
The reference texts describe how, over a woman's lifespan, the number of ovarian follicles decreases due to atresia, leading up to menopause where follicles are depleted. The hormonal shifts during menopause, such as the decrease in the production of estrogens, lead to the onset of menopausal symptoms