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Maternal plasma testosterone levels in molar pregnancy
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|July 1, 1977
Summary
Plasma testosterone levels are higher in patients with molar pregnancy. Following uterine evacuation, testosterone levels significantly decreased, suggesting trophoblast as the source of excess testosterone.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Gynecology
Background:
- Molar pregnancy is a gestational trophoblastic disease.
- Testosterone is a key androgen hormone.
- Abnormal hormone levels can indicate pregnancy complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate plasma testosterone levels in patients with molar pregnancy.
- To compare testosterone levels with normal pregnancies.
- To determine if testosterone levels change after molar pregnancy treatment.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from 14 patients with molar pregnancy.
- Plasma testosterone concentrations were measured.
- Levels were compared before and after uterine evacuation.
- Levels were also compared to those in normal pregnancies.
Main Results:
- Elevated plasma testosterone levels were observed in patients with molar pregnancy (mean 5.2 ng/ml).
- Testosterone levels significantly decreased after uterine evacuation (mean 3.2 ng/ml).
- The observed testosterone levels in molar pregnancy were higher than in normal pregnancies of similar gestation.
Conclusions:
- Molar pregnancy is associated with increased plasma testosterone levels.
- The trophoblast is a potential source of the excess testosterone.
- Testosterone levels normalize after successful treatment of molar pregnancy.