In vivo steroid studies in luteoma of pregnancy

Endocrine studies were performed in 2 cases of luteoma of pregnancy. Even though both luteomas were discovered incidentally at the time of postpartum tubal ligation and cesarean section, they were found to be functionally active, secreting several androgens. Steroid concentrations were measured in the ovarian vein blood draining the luteoma in one patient and in peripheral vein blood in both patients. Peripheral testosterone, androstenedione, and dihydrotestosterone concentrations were increased severalfold higher than the normal controls and were comparable to the concentrations reported previously in virilizing luteomas. Progesterone, 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, and estradiol concentrations were increased as well. The concentrations in the ovarian vein were significantly greater than those in the peripheral vein, which indicates active secretion of these steroids by the luteoma. In spite of the high concentrations of androgens, neither the mothers nor the infants were virilized. Concentrations of androgenic steroids in the cord blood were in the normal range. Determination of steroid concentrations in the serum, taken at intervals post partum, indicated spontaneous regression of the luteomas.