[The syndrome of premature ovarian failure]

The syndrome of early ovarian failure gives rise to several pathogenic and psychological problems because it often condemns the woman to permanent sterility. Because of this a precise diagnosis has to be made, and this is done by: biological examination of serum F.S.H.-L.H., Prolactin, delta 4, 17 O.H.C.S. and 17 C.S., T3 and T4, and T.S.H. and Oestradiol levels. Karyotyping should also be carried out because that allows a dysgenesis to be eliminated. Auto-immune antibodies should be sought and laparoscopy carried out for ovarian biopsy. Finally, karyotyping can be carried out on the ovarian fibroblasts. Primary follicles should also be sought because these alone could theoretically give rise to pregnancy when oestrogen therapy is stopped.