Plasma level of estradiol in patients with ovarian malignant tumors.

Plasma concentration of estradiol has been investigated in women with epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Forty-nine postmenopausal and/or oophorectomized women with no other malignant or endocrine disease were included in the study. All FIGO stages and the histological types IC, IIC, IIIC, and V were represented. Tumor volumes were evaluated once a month using bimanual recto-vaginal palpation under full anesthesia. Blood samples were drawn for estradiol radioimmunoassay at monthly intervals during 3 months. Plasma levels were compared with a control group of postmenopausal women with no internal disease or medication. The results show a significantly higher concentration in patients with large tumor volume compared to postmenopausal controls and a positive relationship between tumor volume, stage, and plasma estradiol level. Histological type seems to be of less importance and secondary to tumor volume. During chemotherapy the plasma concentration of estradiol decreased rapidly with the reduction of tumor volume.