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Allopregnanolone levels decrease after gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog stimulation test in girls with central

B Predieri¹, S Luisi, E Casarosa

¹Department of Pediatrics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41100 Modena, Italy. barbara.predieri@unimore.it

Journal of Endocrinological Investigation

|June 10, 2010

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Allopregnanolone levels in girls with central precocious puberty (CPP) differ based on stimulation type. Gonadal production is suggested, aiding CPP diagnosis.

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Area of Science:

Endocrinology
Pediatric Endocrinology
Neuroendocrinology

Background:

Allopregnanolone, a neuroactive steroid, is implicated in central precocious puberty (CPP).
Elevated baseline allopregnanolone levels are observed in girls with CPP.
Previous tests suggest both adrenal and ovarian contribution to allopregnanolone production.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess allopregnanolone concentrations following GnRH and GnRH agonist analog stimulation in girls with CPP.
To elucidate the primary source of allopregnanolone secretion in CPP.

Main Methods:

Evaluation of gonadotropins and steroid hormones in 15 girls with CPP.
Administration of GnRH and triptorelin (GnRH agonist analog) stimulation tests.
Measurement of allopregnanolone, LH, FSH, estradiol, and DHEAS levels post-stimulation.

Main Results:

GnRH stimulation led to significant increases in LH, FSH, and allopregnanolone.
Triptorelin administration resulted in significant increases in LH, FSH, estradiol, and DHEAS.
Triptorelin administration caused a significant decrease in allopregnanolone levels.

Conclusions:

Differential allopregnanolone response to GnRH and its agonist analog suggests varying mechanisms of action.
Data indicate a predominant gonadal source for allopregnanolone in CPP subjects.
Allopregnanolone measurement may be a valuable diagnostic tool for CPP.