On receptors for estrogens (e2) and androgens (dht) in human endometrial carcinoma and ovarian tumours

Abstract

Some human endometrial carcinomas contain receptors for estrogen (E2) [estradiol-17.beta.] and dihydrotestosteron (DHT). Analysis of 50 primary endometrial carcinomas by agar gel electrophoresis revealed a varying receptor pattern, absence of both receptors, sole presence of E2- or DHT-receptor or presence of both. Highly differentiated tumors often had receptors of both types (7/18) and poorly differentiated tumors most often lacked them (1/10). Primary tumors with metastases (stages III-IV) seldom had combined receptors, only in 2 cases out of 9. Growth of the tumor down in the cervical canal (stage II) implied absence of combined receptors in all 13 cases studied. In 8 ovarian tumors, presence of E2- or DHT-receptors was found in 6. The findings are discussed in relation to hormonal treatment of the disease.