An Attempt to Assess the Magnitude of Endogenous Androgen Production in a Case of the Adrenogenital Syndrome

This study evaluated endogenous androgen production in a 17-year-old female with adrenogenital syndrome by administering high doses of estradiol benzoate and ethinyl estradiol. Despite significant estrogen administration, complete feminization was not achieved, suggesting the patient inactivated exogenous estrogen at an unusually high rate. The study used various indices, including vaginal smears and biopsies, to measure effects and estimated daily androgen production to be equivalent to 1,500-2,500 mg of testosterone propionate. The findings indicate exceptionally high endogenous androgen production, not predictable from clinical symptoms or urinary 17-ketosteroid levels.