Finger length ratios in Serbian transsexuals

Atypical prenatal hormone exposure could be a factor in the development of transsexualism. There is evidence that the 2nd and 4th digit ratio (2D:4D) associates negatively with prenatal testosterone and positively with estrogens. The aim was to assess the difference in 2D:4D between female to male transsexuals (FMT) and male to female transsexuals (MFT) and controls. We examined 42 MFT, 38 FMT, and 45 control males and 48 control females. Precise measurements were made by X-rays at the ventral surface of both hands from the basal crease of the digit to the tip using vernier calliper. Control male and female patients had larger 2D:4D of the right hand when compared to the left hand. Control male's left hand ratio was lower than in control female's left hand. There was no difference in 2D:4D between MFT and control males. MFT showed similar 2D:4D of the right hand with control women indicating possible influencing factor in embryogenesis and consequently finger length changes. FMT showed the lowest 2D:4D of the left hand when compared to the control males and females. Results of our study go in favour of the biological aetiology of transsexualism.

Premature ovarian failure

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is the occurrence of hypergonadotropic hypoestrogenic amenorrhea in women under the age of forty years. It is idiopathic in 74-90% patients. Known cases can be divided into primary and secondary POF. In primary POF genetic aberrations can involve the X chromosome (monosomy, trisomy, translocations, deletions) or autosomes. Genetic mechanisms include reduced gene dosage and non-specific chromosome effects impairing meiosis, decreasing the pool of primordial follicles and increasing atresia due to apoptosis or failure of follicle maturation. Autoimmune ovarian damage is caused by alteration of T-cell subsets and T-cell mediated injury, increase of autoantibody producing B-cells, a low number of effector/cytotoxic lymphocyte, which decreases the number and activity of natural killer cells. Bilateral oophorectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and infections cause the secondary POF. Symptoms of POF include irritability, nervousness, loss of libido, depression, lack of concentration, hot flushes, weight gaining, dry skin, vaginal dryness, frequent infections etc.The diagnosis is confirmed by the level of FSH of over 40 IU/L and estradiol below 50 pmol/L in women aged below 40 years. Biochemical and other hormonal analysis (free thyroxin, TSH, prolactin, testosterone), karyotype (<30 years of age), ultrasound of the breasts and pelvis are advisable. Optimal therapy is combined estrogen progestagen therapy given in a sequential rhythm, after excluding absolute contraindications. Testosterone can be added to adnexectomized women and those with a low libido. Sequential estrogen progestagen replacement therapy is the first line therapy for ovulation induction in those looking for pregnancy and after that oocyte donation will be advised. Appropriate estro-progestagen therapy improves the quality of life and prevents complications such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, stroke etc.

Adrenocorticotrophin-dependent hypercortisolism: imaging versus laboratory diagnosis

INTRODUCTION

Cushing's syndrome results from inappropriate exposure to excessive glucocorticoids. Untreated, it has significant morbidity and mortality.

CASE OUTLINE

A 38-year-old woman with a typical appearance of Cushing's syndrome was admitted for further evaluation of hypercortisolism. The serum cortisol level was elevated without diurnal rhythm, without adequate suppression of cortisol after 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test. 24-hour urinary-free cortisol level was elevated. Differential diagnostic testing indicated adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH)-dependent lesion of the pituitary origin. Pituitary abnormalities were not observed during repeated MRI scanning. Inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) was performed: 1) Baseline ratio ACTH inferior petrosal sinus/peripheral was <2; 2) Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) stimulated ratio ACTH inferior petrosal sinus/peripheral was <3; 3) Baseline intersinus ratio of ACTH was <1.4; 4) Increase in inferior petrosal sinus and peripheral ACTH of more than 50 percent above basal level after CRH; 5) Baseline ratio ACTH vena jugularis interna/peripheral was >1.7. Transsphenoidal exploration and removal of the pituitary tumor was performed inducing iatrogenic hypopituitarism. Postoperative morning serum cortisol level was less than 50 nmol/l on adequate replacement therapy with hydrocortisone, levothyroxine and estro-progestagen.

CONCLUSION

No single test provides absolute distinction, but the combined results of several tests generally provide a correct diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome.