Steroid receptors in intracranial tumors

Cytosolic estrogen (ER), progesterone (PR), androgen (AR), and glucocorticoid (GR) receptors were evaluated in 6 meningiomas and 12 gliomas (6 astrocytomas and 6 glioblastomas) using a dextran-coated charcoal method. Thirty-three percent (two) of the meningiomas and 17% (two) of the gliomas contained positive (greater than or equal to 10 fmol/mg protein) but low ER levels. On the other hand, positive PR, GR, and AR levels were detectable in 100% (six) of the meningiomas. PR was present in 50% (six), AR in 42% (five), and GR in 58% (seven) of the gliomas. PR, GR, and AR values were statistically higher in meningiomas than in neuroepithelial tumors.