Radioimmunoscintigraphy Using Monoclonal Antibodies to CEA, CA 19-9 and CA 125

131I labelled F (ab’)2 fragments of monoclonal antibodies against CA 19-9 and CEA (“radioimmunococktail” IMACIS 1) were used in a prospective study (n = 60 patients) and in a retrospective study (n = 32 patients) for the detection of colorectal carcinomas (n = 67) and other gastrointestinal CEA/CA 19-9-producing tumors (n = 32). Sensitivity was 82% and specificity 90%. Immunoscintigraphy proved useful and complementary to CT scan and sonography, especially in the diagnosis of pelvic recurrences and intra-abdominal metastases.

In addition, monoclonal antibody OC 125 (IMACIS 2) was used for the detection of ovarian carcinomas (n = 10) and other CA 125 producing tumors. Immunoscintigraphy was positive in all patients (n = 18) suggesting that this radioimmunological approach could be of use in the staging, therapeutic control and earlier diagnosis of recurrent epithelial ovarian carcinoma.

Frozen shoulder: a sympathetic dystrophy?

Diagnostic and clinical features of the frozen shoulder syndrome and the Sudeck syndrome are similar in many aspects. Radioisotope bone scan shows an increased uptake in affected areas in both diseases, while native radiographs show a progressive demineralisation. Measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) by quantitative digital radiography objectified these local decalcification processes in an early stage of the frozen shoulder syndrome; 10 of 12 patients with primary frozen shoulder had BMD decreases greater 21% in the humeral head of the affected shoulder compared to the non-affected side. In the immobilised control group with degenerative changes of the rotator cuff, calcifying tendinitis and shoulder instability (n = 12) and in the group of healthy probands (n = 20), the difference between the affected and non-affected side (left and right humerus of the healthy probands) was only more than 21% in one case each. There are several references in the literature that assume frozen shoulder to be an algoneurodystrophic process; our observations support this hypothesis, possibly leading to earlier diagnoses and extended therapeutic management.

Oral budesonide and ursodeoxycholic acid for treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis: results of a prospective double-blind trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is used for treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis. Previous studies showed that, compared with UDCA monotherapy, bile salts plus prednisolone had no further effect on laboratory data but improved liver histology. Thirty percent of these patients had prednisolone-related side effects. Budesonide is a glucocorticoid with a high receptor affinity and a high first-pass metabolism. In this study we investigated whether budesonide and UDCA are superior to UDCA monotherapy.

METHODS

A 2-year prospective, controlled double-blind trial was performed. Twenty patients (mainly with early-stage disease) were treated with UDCA at a dose of 10-15 mg/kg daily in addition to 3 mg budesonide 3 times daily (group A), and 19 patients (1 dropped out for personal reasons) were treated with UDCA plus placebo (group B). Liver biopsy specimens were taken before, after 12 months, and at the end of study. Glucose tolerance tests, serum cortisol levels, and adrenocorticotropin-stimulated cortisol secretion were assessed at regular intervals. Bone mass density was measured by dual-energy photon absorptiometry.

RESULTS

Compared with pretreatment values, liver enzyme and immunoglobulin M and G levels decreased significantly in both groups. Improvement in group A was significantly more pronounced (P < 0.05) than in group B. Titers of antimitochondrial antibodies did not change. In group A, the point score of liver histology improved by 30.3%; in group B, it deteriorated by 3.5% (P < 0.001). Changes in bone mineral density after 2 years were -1.747% in group A and -0.983% in group B (P = 0.43). Budesonide had little influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. One patient in group A had budesonide-related side effects; in 3 patients in group B, complications of liver disease developed.

CONCLUSIONS

Combination therapy with UDCA and budesonide is superior to UDCA and placebo.

Frozen shoulder--an algoneurodystrophic process?

The frozen shoulder syndrome and the Sudeck syndrome are clinically in many aspects similar. Radioisotope bone scan shows an increased uptake in the affected areas in both diseases, while standard radiographs show a progressive demineralization. With measurement of bone-mineral density by quantitative digital radiography these local decalcification processes were diagnosed in an early stage of the frozen shoulder syndrome: of 12 patients with primary frozen shoulder 10 had a bone-mineral density decrease of more than 21% in the humeral head of the affected shoulder compared to the unaffected side. In the control groups (n = 32) the difference between affected and unaffected side (left and right humerus of the healthy probands) was in only one case each above 21%. There are several indications in the literature assuming the frozen shoulder to be an algoneurodystrophic process. Our observation supports this hypothesis, and may possibly lead to earlier diagnosis and improved therapeutic management.

[Quantitative determination of echogenicity of diffuse inflammatory thyroid gland diseases]

Grey level was measured in 93 ultrasonic scans of the thyroid gland in order to quantify hypoechogenicity in diffuse inflammatory thyroid disease. Using a modern ultrasound device (256 grey-scale steps and 7.5-MHz parallel scan), grey levels were measured in normal thyroid glands and euthyreotic goiters as well as in thyroiditis or Graves' disease using a programmed setting of the device. Highly significant differences were found between normal thyroid glands and thyroiditis or Graves' disease. Sensitivity of the method was 65% in discriminating Graves' disease and 91% in discriminating thyroiditis; specificity was 95%. The clinical value of the method for follow-up studies in inflammatory diseases of the thyroid gland still has to be established.

Subcutaneous gonadotropin therapy in male patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

OBJECTIVE

The response to subcutaneous (SC) gonadotropin replacement therapy, using human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) or hCG alone, was evaluated in male hypothalamic hypogonadism.

DESIGN

Sixteen patients with hypothalamic hypogonadism were treated with gonadotropins for induction of puberty and normalization of spermatogenesis. The results were analyzed retrospectively.

SETTING

The study was carried out in a clinical endocrinology department providing tertiary care and in private practices of endocrinology.

PATIENTS

Eight patients with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and eight patients with Kallmann's syndrome in prepubertal or early pubertal stages.

INTERVENTIONS

Human chorionic gonadotropin and hMG were administered SC in individual dosages.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Increase of serum testosterone (T), testicular volume, semen volume, and sperm count were evaluated.

RESULTS

Normalization of serum T and complete sexual maturation was achieved in all patients. Spermatogenesis was induced in all but two patients. Seven patients showed normal findings in semen volume and sperm count, and two patients had semen quality close to normal. In five patients sperm count remained less than 10 x 10(6)/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained by SC gonadotropin replacement prove this mode of administration to be effective in stimulating steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic males.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics after subcutaneous and intramuscular injection of human chorionic gonadotropin

OBJECTIVE

The pharmacokinetics and efficiency of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) after subcutaneous (SC) injection was to clarify in comparison with the intramuscular (IM) mode of administration.

DESIGN

In a prospective study, the pharmacokinetics of hCG and the response of serum testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) after an IM and SC injection of 5,000 IU hCG were evaluated up to 144 hours in two randomized groups.

SETTING

The study was carried out in a clinical dermatology department providing tertiary care.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-four healthy male volunteers with a mean age of 22.7 +/- 4.3 years were divided into two groups.

INTERVENTIONS

Human chorionic gonadotropin (5,000 IU) was injected IM or SC.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Serum concentration of /b-hCG, T, LH, and FSH were evaluated after IM and SC administration of hCG. Differences between the two groups were determined by t-test.

RESULTS

Compared with IM administration of hCG, peak serum drug concentration was significantly delayed (P = 0.01) and serum half-life was prolonged (P = 0.01) after SC injection; however, T, LH, and FSH responses were identical.

CONCLUSIONS

Subcutaneous application of 5,000 IU hCG is as effective as IM administration in terms of steroidogenesis.

Early immunoscintigraphic localisation of a mediastinal tumour with indium 111-DTPA CEA-specific F(ab')2 monoclonal antibody fragments (BW 431/31) using second tracer isocontour technique

A female patient with steadily increasing carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) serum levels of unknown origin was referred for immunoscintigraphy with indium 111-labelled CEA-specific monoclonal antibody. The procedure revealed a tumour, undetectable by conventional diagnostic methods. Anatomical landmarking using the second tracer isocontour technique allowed the distinction between an intra- or extrapulmonary lesion. Two months later, tumour infiltration along the aortic arch was confirmed by a targeted angio-CT scan. Upon surgery, the diagnosis was definitely established histologically (undifferentiated, solid large cell carcinoma, most probably arising from the bronchus), and staining by CEA-specific immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of the CEA antigen.

[The surgical concept of malignant melanoma with special reference to lymphatic drainage scintigraphy]

Scintigraphy of the lymphatic vessels was performed in 29 patients with malignant melanoma of the skin (stage I) prior to operation. In 20 cases this procedure was a means of determining the course of the lymphatic vessels leading from the tumor to the respective lymphatic nodules. The lymphatic vessels were indicated by marks on the skin surface and could thus be taken into consideration in the surgical procedure. The parts of the lymphatic vessels adjacent to the tumor were removed without substantially prolonging the operation. This procedure is intended to help minimize the risk of metastases evolving.

[Immunoscintigraphy using 111In-DTPA-labeled monoclonal antibodies: comparison with ECT and planar scintigraphy]

The present study was done in order to examine if the use of 111In-DTPA-labeled MAb fragments in place of 131I-labeled MAb fragments increases the sensitivity of tomographic immunoscintigraphy to reach the level of that of planar imaging techniques. In 11 patients with various primary tumors, local recurrences or metastases [colorectal carcinoma (n = 7), ovarian carcinoma (n = 2), papillary thyroid carcinoma (n = 1), undifferentiated carcinoma of the lung (n = 1)], immunoscintigraphy (IS) was carried out using 111In-DTPA-labeled F(ab')2 fragments of various MAbs (anti-CEA, OC 125, anti-hTG) and planar and tomographic imaging were compared intra-individually. By conventional diagnostic procedures, the presence of a tumor mass was confirmed (transmission computer tomography, ultrasound) or verified (131I whole-body scintigraphy, histology) in all cases. Immunoscintigraphy was positive in 9 out of 11 cases by ECT and in 10 out of 11 cases by planar imaging. When using 111In-labeled MAb fragments, intra-individual comparison of ECT and planar imaging resulted in a similar sensitivity. The increased sensitivity of ECT using this tracer in contrast to 131I-labeled MAb fragments may be attributed to the fact that the physical properties of 111In are much more suitable for the gamma cameras most commonly used (single detector, 3/8'' crystal); using 111In-labeled MAb fragments, count rates sufficient for ECT can be obtained within a reasonable acquisition time. This allows to combine IS with the advantages of ECT regarding tumour localization and prevention of artefacts due to superposition of background.

Stimulation of spermatogenesis and biological paternity by intranasal (low dose) gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in a male with Kallmann's syndrome: intraindividual comparison of GnRH and gonadotropins for stimulation of spermatogenesis

Intranasal (in) GnRH spray caused induction and maintenance of spermatogenesis and biological paternity in a 28-yr-old man with Kallmann's syndrome. Prior treatment had included GnRH analog administration, which failed to induce puberty, and testosterone (T) enanthate weekly. Prior hCG/human menopausal gonadotropin therapy had resulted in high normal serum T levels and near-normal semen quality, but during subsequent hCG therapy, spermatogenesis markedly decreased. The patient had then received 250 mg T enanthate/month for 2 yr and 7 months; it was discontinued 7 weeks before the in GnRH study began. At its start (July 1984) the subject's testis size was 7 mL, and he had azoospermia, low serum LH and FSH levels, and a serum T of 74 ng/dL (2.6 nmol/L). GnRH was administered in a dose of 200 micrograms (20-120 ng/kg were absorbed into the circulation) every 2 h, seven to nine times a day, between 0700 and 2400 h for 242 days. After 12 days of treatment, serum T had increased to 519 ng/dL (18.0 nmol/L). After 70 days, the patient's sperm count was 11.5 million/mL (4.5 mL ejaculate volume; 70% motility; 36% normal morphology); on day 185, sperm count was 31 million/mL (4 mL ejaculate volume; 54% motility; 36% normal morphology). His spouse conceived on day 162 and delivered a fullterm daughter 265 days later. The probability of paternity was 99.9994%. Our results suggest that induction and maintenance of spermatogenesis as well as fertility in hypothalamic hypogonadism can be achieved with in GnRH therapy if pituitary and testicular function are intact. Spermatogenesis induced by in GnRH has the same quality as spermatogenesis induced by hCG/human menopausal gonadotropin therapy. Patient compliance is probably the most important factor for the success of in GnRH therapy.

131-Metaiodobenzylguanedine therapy of neuroblastoma in childhood. One year of therapeutic experience

Eleven children with neuroblastoma refractory to conventional therapy or relapse of neuroblastoma were treated with 131-metaiodobenzylguanedine (MIBG). The therapeutic results and the side effects were evaluated. In one patient with disseminated bone marrow involvement complete remission was obtained. Partial remission was observed in six patients and stable disease in another. Three patients did not respond to MIBG, in two of them the tumours did not accumulate a sufficient MIBG dose. Clinical and laboratory examinations revealed an excellent tolerance of MIBG in all patients. First attempts to continue cytostasis after MIBG therapy were made. MIBG has a good therapeutic efficacy is sufficiently incorporated into the tumour cell.

[Induction of puberty by pulsatile luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LH-RH)--therapy in a boy with Kallmann syndrome]

To induce the lacking development of puberty, a male patient with hypothalamic hypogonadism and anosmia (Kallmann's syndrome) was treated with pulsatile application of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) to imitate the endogenous secretion of GnRH. The low-dose pulsatile GnRH treatment which was reported to be successful by various authors proved to be ineffective when administered to our patient subcutaneously as well as intravenously. Serum testosterone levels comparable to the lower normal values in adults and continuous progress of pubertal development were only achieved after increasing the dosage from 2 to 8 micrograms per pulse by subcutaneous application. The course of therapy is reported in detail.

[Clinical evaluation of the tumor marker CA 19-9 in comparison with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in surgical pre- and postoperative diagnosis]

A new tumor marker (CA 19-9) was investigated. CA 19-9 is a tumor-associated antigen which is detected by a monoclonal antibody. CA 19-9 (CIS-Centocor) was compared simultaneously with CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) in 347 patients. 123 patients with gastrointestinal tumors showed a sensitivity of 31% for CA 19-9 (CEA 49%), combination increased sensitivity to 58%. The highest sensitivity was found in pancreas carcinoma (CA 19-9 75%, CEA 66%, combination 92%); it was lower in gastric, colon, and oesophagus carcinomas. In relapsed colorectal carcinomas sensitivity was 53% (CEA 78%, combination 85%). In cases of relapse, tumor markers may become positive even if they were not detectable before resection of the primary tumor. Specificity for CA 19-9 was 100% (CEA 84%) compared to a group of non-malignant diseases including patients with inflammations and patients with nicotin abuse (n = 102). Because of its high specificity and superior sensitivity to CEA in pancreas carcinomas CA 19-9 should be determined in primary and relapse diagnosis in combination with CEA.

Klinische Überprüfung des Tumormarkers CA 19-9 im Vergleich zum karzinoembryonalen Antigen (CEA) in der chirurgischen prä- und postoperativen Diagnostik

Die Wertigkeit eines neuen Tumormarkers (CA 19-9) wurde in einem chirurgisch-onkologischen Krankengut untersucht. Es handelt sich um ein tumorassoziiertes Antigen, das mit Hilfe eines monoklonalen Antikörpers bestimmt wird. Ein Vergleich erfolgte mit einem herkömmlichen CEA-RIA. In Seren von insgesamt 347 Patienten erfolgte simultan die Bestimmung von CEA und CA 19-9. Die Sensitivität von CA 19-9 bei 123 Patienten mit gastrointestinalen Tumoren betrug 31% (CEA 49%). In der Kombination erhöhte sich die Sensitivität auf 58%. Höchste Werte für CA 19-9 fanden wir beim Pankreaskarziom mit 75% (CEA 66%, Kombination 92%). Geringere Sensitivitäten ergaben sich bei Magen-, Kolonund Ösophaguskarzinomen. Melanompatienten waren bis auf eine Ausnahme CA 19-9 seronegativ (CEA 15% positiv). In der Rezidivdiagnostik kolorektaler Tumoren ergab sich für CA 19-9 eine Sensitivität von 53% (CEA 78%, Kombination 85%); bei Rezidiven kann ein Tumormarker positiv werden, der bei Auftreten des Primärtumors negativ war. Die Spezifität betrug, gemessen an einer Gruppe nicht-maligner Erkrankungen, incl. Entzündungen und Patienten mit arterieller Verschlußkrankheit und Niko- tinabusus (n = 102), für CA 19-9 100% sowie für CEA 84%. Aufgrund der hohen Spezifität sowie der CEA übertreffenden Sensitivität beim Pankreaskarziom empfiehlt sich die simultane Bestimmung von CEA und CA 19-9 in der chirurgischen Primärund Rezidivdiagnostik.

[99mTc uptake and TSH receptor autoantibodies--comparative study in Basedow's disease and other thyroid diseases]

In 255 patients (normals: group I, n = 30; nontoxic goitres: group II, n = 134; toxic goitres without ophthalmopathy: group III, n = 63; Graves' disease: group IV, n = 28) a TSH-receptor-autoantibody-assay (TRAK assay) for detection of thyrotropin-binding inhibiting antibodies (TBIAb) was tested and 99mTcO4-uptake (TcTU) was measured. Normal TcTU (range: 1.5-5.5%) and normal TRAK values (normal limit: F less than 11%) were only found in group I. An increased TcTU was found in group II in 22.4% (increased TRAK values only in 2.2%). In group III an increased TcTU was measured in 34.9% of the patients (all with normal TRAK titers). The stimulation of the TSH-receptor in immunogenic hyperthyroidism by TBIAb could be demonstrated by increased TRAK values in 71.4% of the patients with Graves' disease. In correlation, TcTU was also increased in 82.1% of the patients in group IV. As the measurement of TcTU can be helpful in differential diagnosis, the functional imaging with gamma camera and computer is today a conditio sine qua non, especially in suspected hyperthyroidism.

Pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone therapy in male patients with Kallmann's syndrome or constitutional delay of puberty

The response to low-dose pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) therapy was tested in three hypogonadotropic hypogonadal male patients and a boy with delayed puberty showing different luteinizing hormone responses (delta LH) to test doses of 25 micrograms GnRH intravenously before treatment. Four male patients, 16 to 20 years of age, three with Kallmann's syndrome and one with idiopathic delay of puberty, received 2 micrograms GnRH subcutaneously every 2 1/2 hours for 3 months by the use of the Zyklomat pump (Ferring GmbH, Kiel, FRG). In two patients with Kallmann's syndrome and decreased delta LH, serum testosterone did not increase during treatment, even after increasing the dosage and changing the route of administration (4 micrograms subcutaneously or 8 micrograms intravenously every 2 1/2 hours for 4 weeks with every dosage). The third patient with Kallmann's syndrome and the boy with delayed puberty, both with normal delta LH, presented normal serum testosterone after 3 months of subcutaneous low-dose treatment. The different responses to a GnRH test dose corresponding to the response to pulsatile GnRH therapy probably reflect different degrees of maturation of the pituitary gonadotrophs.

99mTcO4-Uptake und TSH-Rezeptor-Autoantikörper –Vergleichende Untersuchung bei M. Basedow und anderen Schilddrüsenerkrankungen

Bei 255 Patienten (Gruppe I: 30 -normale Schilddrüsen, Gruppe II: 134 euthyreote Strumen, Gruppe III: 63 hyperthyreote Strumen ohne Exophthalmus, Gruppe IV: 28 Patienten mit M. Basedow) wurde ein TSH-Rezeptor- Autoantikörper-Assay (TRAKAssay) zum Nachweis von Thyreotropin- Bindungs-inhibierenden Antikörpern (TBIAb) erprobt und vergleichend hierzu der 99mTc-Thyroid-Uptake (TcTU) bestimmt. In Gruppe I fanden sich nur normale TcTU (zwischen 1,5 und 5,5%) und normale TR AK-Werte (F < + ll% ) . In Gruppe II war im Sinne einer vermehrten Jodavidität der TcTU in 22,4% der Fälle erhöht, lediglich 2,2% der Patienten hatten TRAK-Werte > + 10%. Einen erhöhten TcTU wiesen 34,9% der Patienten in Gruppe III auf, es fanden sich hier keine erhöhten TRAK-Werte. Die vermehrte extrinsische Stimulation des TSH-Rezeptors bei Immun-Hyperthyreose (Gruppe IV) konnte durch den Nachweis von positiven TRAK-Werten in 71,4% erbracht werden. Korrelierend hierzu fand sich ein deutlich erhöhter TcTU (x̄ = 13,9%) bei M. Basedow in 82,1%. Da die Bestimmung des TcTU wesentliche differentialdiagnostische Hilfestellung geben kann, ist die Funktionsszintigraphie mit Gamma-kamera und Computer heute – insbesondere beim Verdacht auf Hyperthyreose – eine conditio sine qua non.

Thallium-201 scintigraphy in the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma

6 patients were studied by 201Tl scintigraphy; 1 of them suffered from a benign, and another from a malignant adrenal pheochromocytoma. 1 patient had a hormonal inactive adrenal tumor, 3 others multiple organ metastases of malignant pheochromocytomas. At the same time, 3 of the patients were studied by 131I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (131I-MIBG) scintigraphy. Using different techniques like kinetic studies, whole-body scan or a 201Tl-99m-Tc difference scan, benign and malignant pheochromocytoma tissues could be localized by 201Tl scintigraphy. Benign and malignant pheochromocytomas showed different kinetics of 201Tl. In 2 patients with multiple organ metastases of malignant pheochromocytomas, the metastases were partly imaged by 131I-MIBG, the others by 201Tl.

[Pregnancy and hyperprolactinemia]

After endocrinological and radiological evaluation of a hyperprolactinemia 13 patients became pregnant under bromocriptine therapy. In two of these patients a selective adenomectomy was performed by the transphenoidal route because of a prolactin (PRL) secreting adenoma. In 12 patients the pregnancy was not complicated. The serum PRL levels were different but mostly in a normal range. The control of x-ray and visual field in patients with a rapid increase of the PRL levels did not result in a tumor recurrence. After a normal course of the serum PRL concentrations one patient with a microadenoma developed suddenly a chiasma syndrome in the 31th week of gestation. The further evaluation resulted in a pituitary tumor with suprasellar extension. The discrepancy between the radiological result and the normal serum PRL levels was explained by a hemorrhage into the adenoma. After the operation the chiasma syndrome was reversible within a short period. Altogether, the course of the pregnancies was not complicated. We did not see fetal malformations. Post partum the sella x-ray of all patients did not reveal any significant changes so far.

[Diagnosis of the site of insulinomas: percutaneous transhepatic portal vein catheterisations with selective blood sampling for hormone determination (author's transl)]

Percutaneous transhepatic portal vein catheterisation with blood sampling from the various areas of drainage, especially the pancreatic veins, was undertaken in seven patients with insulinoma to diagnose its site. In six patients measurement of serum-insulin levels revealed an abrupt rise in the vascular area later found to drain the area of the insulinoma. Insulin measurement in one patient with insulinoma in the head of the pancreas falsely indicated an islet-cell tumour in the region of the tail of the pancreas. C-peptide concentration in serum followed the concentration of insulin, but did not show such a marked rise. The method of percutaneous transhepatic portal vein catheterisation with selective blood sampling for the measurement of hormonal concentration was superior to ultrasound, computer tomography or coeliacography for determining the site of the tumour.

Endocrine studies with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue to achieve withdrawal of testosterone in prostate carcinoma patients

This investigation on 12 well-defined patients with untreated, advanced prostatic adenocarcinoma establishes the gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue [D-Ser(But)6](1-9)-nonapeptide-ethylamide (Hoe 766) as an effective, safe and non-toxic form of medical castration. Hoe 766 was given either as subcutaneous injections of 2 x 200 micrograms/day over 14 days and pernasal application (3 x 400 micrograms/day) thereafter, or as subcutaneous injections of 3 x 1,000 micrograms/day over 6 days and pernasal application thereafter in the dosage mentioned above. Both dose regimens were equally effective: pituitary overstimulation between days 3 and 6 with a rise of serum HL and testosterone; pituitary and testicular desensitization with LH and testosterone decline between days 6 and 14; medical castration with average serum testosterone levels maintained around 0.5 ng/ml for up to 12 weeks. Except for transient hot flashes in 4 patients, no clinical or laboratory side effects were observed. It is concluded from this study that the gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue. Hoe 766, is a valuable alternative to conventional contrasexual measures for prostate cancer palliation. To improve the patient's compliance, however, the smallest single pernasal dosage effective for maintenance of down-regulation and steroidogenic arrest has still to be determined.

[Effect of calcium dobesilate on permeation of plasma proteins in diabetic patients]

The effect of six months of treatment with 750 mg calcium dobesilate on sedimentation rate blood count, cholesterol, triglycerides, platelet aggregation factor, total protein, electrophoretic distribution of serum protein concentrations, and kinetics of intravenous albumin marked with 131I was established in 35 diabetics with a mean duration of diabetes of 9.8 years. There was significant intravascular retention of 131I albumin and significant increase of serum albumin, beta-globulins and total protein after treatment. The other parameters remained unchanged. The results are interpreted as evidence of lowering of the increased transcapillary permeability within the vascular system seen in diabetics.

[Endocrinological prediction of the responsiveness of depressive patients to lofepramine (author's transl)]

In a pilot study of 15 depressive patients of the neurotic and endogenous type we could show that some neuroendocrinological parameters are apt to predict the thymoleptic efficacy of lofepramine. These parameters, which were measured with a simple global stimulation test (insulin hypoglycaemia combined with injection of TRH and LHRH), were as follows: high basal blood glucose; high hypoglycaemic blood glucose; high decrease of blood glucose in comparison to the basal level; low basal TSH; low increase of HGH and low increase of cortisol after hypoglycemia. A synopsis of these parameters allowed a correct classification of 14 out of 15 patients according to therapy response and therapy resistance.

[Gonadotropin secretion following pernasal stimulation with synthetic gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and a highly effective GnRH-analog in healthy men and prepubertal boys]

Potent long acting analogs of GnRH are of great interest especially in view of pernasal (p.n.) treatmen of hypogonadism of hypothalamic origin and of cryptorchidism. To find the necessary p.n. dosage of such a substance, serum LH and FSH were measured in 6 normal adult human males after p.n. application of various doses of D Leu6-des-Gly10-GnRH ethylamide. 50 microgram of the GnRH analog were necessary to obtain increased serum gonadotropins over a period of at least 8 hours. By repeated p.n. application of 200 microgram of synthetic GnRH every 2 hours in 6 normal adult males a considerable increase of serum gonadotropins could be demonstrated as well. Pernasal application of 200 microgram GnRH repeated at an interval of 1 hour in 3 cryptorchid boys produced a distinct increase of the serum gonadotropins. The intraindividual comparison of 200 microgram GnRH and 20 microgram of the GnRH analog in one boy showed equivalent net increases of the gonadotropins. With the analog the gonadotropin increase lasted for about 6 hours.

Gonadotropin and testosterone secretion in normal human males after stimulation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or potent GnRH analogs using different modes of application

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and some potent long-acting GnRH analogs, applied by different routes of administration, were tested in six healthy human males. The effects on gonadotropin secretion were compared with the one after intravenous (i.v.) bolus injection of 25 microgram of GnRH. The net increase of luteinizing hormone (deltaLH) in serum produced by 25 microgram of GnRH i.v. was matched by subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of 100 microgram of GnRH, dissolved in 20% gelatin or without gelatin; 5 microgram of D-Ser (TBU)6-des-Gly10-GnRH-ethylamide i.v.; 5 microgram of D-Leu6-des-Gly10-GnRH-ethylamide i.v.; and 50 microgram of D-Trp6-des Gly10-GnRH-ethylamide given pernasally (p.n.). D-Leu6-des-Gly10-GnRH-ethylamide, 50 microgram p.n., produced one-half such increase as did also multiple p.n. administrations of 200 microgram of GnRH every 2 hours. With 100 microgram of GnRH and all analogs, elevation of serum LH lasted for about 7 to 9 hours. The longest elevation was observed with GnRH dissolved in gelatin and with D-Ser (TBU)6-des-Gly10-GnRH-ethylamide, as reflected by the greatest areas under the curves of net increase. The longer the duration of the action of LH secretion, the higher was the observed increase in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Correlation between effect on LH secretion and testosterone secretion was not found. By infusion of 1 microgram/kg/hour od D-Leu6-des-Gly10-GnRH-Ethylamide in two men over a period of 15 hours, a plateau of gonadotropin levels was reached within 7 to 9 hours. These plateau levels, especially of FSH, were higher than after bolus injection or p.n. application.

Treatment of cryptorchidism with pernasal gonadotropin-releasing hormone therapy

Twenty-five boys between 1 and 10 years of age with unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism were treated with 200 microgram of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pernasally six times daily until descensus was completed, or for 10 weeks at most. Complete descent of the tests occurred in 16 patients, usually after 2 to 5 weeks of treatment. No adverse side effects have been observed. Radioimmunologic measurements of serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, and prolactin, carried out before treatment, at the end of treatment, and 6 months after treatment, showed a transitory increase of the LH responsiveness to GnRH in only four of the patients and in the group as a whole a slight but significant decrease of FSH responsiveness. There were no signs of precocious puberty. GnRH antibodies were not found.

Treatment of cryptorchidism with a potent analog of gonadotropin-releasing hormone

Pernasal therapy of cryptorchidism with D-Leu6-des-Gly10-gonadotropin-releasing hormone ethylamide (D-Leu6-des-Gly10-GnRH-EA), a potent, long-acting GnRH analog, was attempted. Eleven prepubertal cryptorchid boys received between 25 microgram once daily and 25 to 50 microgram twice daily for 5 to 12 weeks. Complete testicular descent was achieved in 4 of the 11 boys. GnRH tests (1.5 microgram/kg intravenously), conducted in six boys before treatment, after 4 weeks of treatment, and in 2 boys 3 months after treatment, did not reveal changes in gonadotropin secretion indicative of precocious puberty or of decreased hypophyseal sensitivity to GnRH. Antibodies to the GnRH analog or to GnRH could not be detected.

[Gonadotropin secretion after stimulation with a highly effective analog of the gonadotropin-releasing-hormone (GnRH) in normal adult human males (author's transl)]

Potent long acting anologs of GnRH are of great interest especially in view of treatment of hypothalamic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and of cryptorchidism. To find necessary parenteral doses of such a substance immunoreactive serum LH and FSH were measured in 4 normal adult human males after s.c. injection of various doses of D-Leu6-des-Gly10-GnRH-EA. 5 microgram of the GnRH anlog were necessary to obtain increased serum gonadotropins over a period of at least 8 h. Comparable maximal levels were seen after i.v. bolus injection of 25 microgram natural GnRH a dose as used in diagnostic routine tests in 3 probands. Comparing the areas under the curves of LH secretion an over 15 times greater effectiveness of the analog was calculated.

[Glisoxepide treatment in maturity-onset diabetics (author's transl)]

Patterns of blood glucose, serum insulin and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured over a period of eight-and-a-half hours in eleven maturity-onset diabetics receiving 8 mg glisoxepide in the morning and 4 mg in the evening (while on a standard diet). The effects of administering the tablets in the morning with breakfast were compared to those on administering the drug half-an-hour (five patients) or one hour (six patients) before breakfast. Although there was a slightly earlier increase in serum insulin when tablets were taken half-an-hour or an hour before breakfast, different times of administration did not significantly affect the blood glucose or NEFA pattern. In particular, the extreme rise in blood glucose levels after the first breakfast could not be avoided.

[Plasma-cAMP in primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism (author's transl)]

3 patients with operatively proven primary hyperparathyroidism showed normal plasma cAMP concentrations. 5 patients in chronic dialysis treatment independent of the level of parathyroid hormone had increased plasma cAMP concentrations. These observations suggest that there is under these circumstances no regulation of plasma cAMP by the parathyroid hormone.