[Interdependence between hormonal disorders, staging and degree of malignancy of prostatic gland cancer. 2]

The aim of this study was to estimate the relations between oestrogen, progesterone, prolactin (PRL) and gonadotrophin levels and the degree of advancement as well as that of malignancy of carcinoma of the prostate. Serum LH and FSH levels were determined under baseline conditions and after stimulation with LH-RH. In patients with metastases and in less differentiated forms of carcinoma the level of oestradiol (E2) was significantly higher. The testosterone/oestradiol ratio was notably lower in patients without metastases and in more differentiated forms. Serum progesterone was significantly higher in less differentiated forms of carcinoma. The concentration of LH in response to the administration of LH-RH was significantly higher in patients with metastases. Measurement of hormone levels at certain stages in the course of carcinoma of the prostate may be of practical value in the choice of appropriate hormone treatment.