Effect of Diethylstilbestrol on Plasma 17-hydroxycorticosteroid Levels in Humans.

Abstract
Summary Seven patients with carcinoma of the prostate showed a significant rise in plasma 17-hydroxycorticosteroid levels during treatment with stilboestrol as compared with pretreatment control levels. In a male with Addison's disease such a rise was not seen, while in a female with subtotal adrenal-ectomy a greater rise in these blood levels occurred following stilboestrol than following ACTH administration. Several mechanisms to explain these observations are discussed. Special thanks are due to Mrs. Angela Cahn and Mrs. Jean Sadler for their technical assistance.