Synthesis and catabolism of PGE2 by a nephroblastoma associated with hypercalcemia without bone metastases

PGE2 overproduction by a nephroblastoma associated with hypercalcemia was clearly demonstrated in a 2-month-old girl. Compared with normal tissue, tumor showed greater phospholipase A2 and PGE2 synthetase activities but metabolized PGE2 at a faster rate. Of the enzymes involved in PGE2 synthesis, those which transform arachidonic acid into PGE2 seem to be more active.