[Anorexia nervosa and Crohn disease: diagnostic intricacies and difficulties. 3 cases]

INTRODUCTION

Diagnosis of anorexia nervosa is readily evoked in young girls who associate decreased food intake and weight loss. Among the differential diagnoses of anorexia, it is important to underline the preponderant place occupied by Crohn's disease.

OBSERVATIONS

We report three cases of young 18 to 25 year-old girls, initially treated for anorexia nervosa in a psychiatric department. Diagnosis of Crohn's disease was made within 5 to 13 years. The clinical and biological characteristics are reported for each case.

COMMENTS

In view of the frequency of digestive disorders concomitant to eating disorders, the distinction between anorexia and digestive disease is particularly delicate. It requires appropriate somatic and biological assessment that, when confronted with clinical and/or biological atypia, may query the initial diagnosis of anorexia.

Molecular markers and long-term recurrences in a large cohort of patients with sporadic adrenocortical tumors

Genetic alterations, such as loss of heterozygosity (LOH) at the 17p13 and 11p15 loci and overexpression of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II gene, are associated with the malignant phenotype in sporadic adrenocortical tumors. A high risk of recurrence after surgery for adrenocortical tumors is predicted in cases with regional invasion or distant metastases. However, patients with localized tumors also have a high risk of recurrence. Reliable prognostic markers are required to identify subjects at high risk of recurrence. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic value of three molecular markers (17p13 LOH, 11p15 LOH, and overexpression of the IGF-II gene) by assessing disease-free survival in a large series of adult patients with sporadic adrenocortical tumors. Adult patients (114) were prospectively followed up from diagnosis of the disease to June 1999 or to death. Malignancy was initially diagnosed in 18 patients (McFarlane stage III: n = 1 and stage IV: n = 17). The remaining 96 patients with localized adrenal disease at diagnosis (stage I: n = 60 and stage II: n = 36) were at risk of recurrence. Histological grade was assessed according to Weiss criteria, and tumors were classified into two groups (Weiss score <or=3 and Weiss score >or=4). Tumor samples were analyzed for LOH at the 17p13 and 11p15 loci and for IGF-II gene mRNA content. 17p13 LOH was a strong predictor of shorter disease-free survival in univariate analysis (P = 0.001; relative risk, 27), as were histological grade (Weiss score >or=4; P = 0.00001; relative risk, 15), 11p15 LOH (P = 0.004; relative risk, 9), tumor size (size >5 cm; P = 0.006; relative risk, 18), and overexpression of the IGF-II gene (P = 0.01; relative risk, 5). In a Cox proportional hazards regression model, histological grade (P = 0.04; relative risk, 4.2) and 17p13 LOH (P = 0.009; relative risk, 21.5) were independently associated with recurrence. Molecular markers, particularly 17p13 LOH, are predictive of long-term outcome in patients with sporadic adrenocortical tumors. In patients who have undergone curative surgery, routine assessment of these tumor markers is a useful complement to histological scoring for predicting recurrence and guiding decisions for subsequent follow-up and management.

Osteoporotic fractures at presentation of Cushing's disease: two case reports and a literature review

Osteoporosis is a common complication of Cushing's disease/syndrome. Fractures can be the presenting manifestation. We report two cases and review 28 others from the literature. Clinical, laboratory, and absorptiometry data are reviewed; the vertebrae and ribs were the most common fracture sites, and osteoporosis reversal after treatment varied with age, gender, and symptom duration. The pathophysiology, which remains controversial, is discussed. A search for Cushing's disease/syndrome should be part of the routine evaluation of osteoporosis in children and adults, particularly men.

Evaluation of plasma insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 as a marker for adrenocortical tumors

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have pointed to the role of the IGF system in the pathogenesis of adrenocortical tumors, and it was shown recently that malignant adrenocortical tumors exhibit a high insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP)-2 content. Circulating markers specific for adrenocortical carcinoma are needed and the aim of this study was to evaluate plasma IGFBP-2 as a marker for these malignant tumors.

METHODS

Plasma IGFBP-2 was determined in 51 patients referred to our institutions for adrenocortical tumors. Fifteen patients were in complete remission (group 1), eight patients had preoperative localized tumors (group 2) and 28 patients had metastatic tumors (group 3). Thirty-six healthy volunteers constituted a control group.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in plasma IGFBP-2 concentration between healthy controls and patients with complete remission or localized tumors. In contrast, patients with metastatic disease had significantly higher IGFBP-2 plasma levels than the control group (P<0.001). IGFBP-2 levels in patients with metastatic disease were inversely correlated with survival (R2=0.308; P=0.0026). In patients with localized tumors, there was no correlation between plasma IGFBP-2 concentration and tumor size or histological features. Analysis of individual IGFBP-2 concentrations showed that five patients (17.8%) with metastatic tumors had normal IGFBP-2 levels and two patients (13.3%) in complete remission had high plasma IGFBP-2 levels. The influence of nutrition, hormone secretion and treatment on IGFBP-2 levels was examined. Nutritional status was evaluated by determining IGF-I levels and was found to be normal in 16 patients (61.5%) with high IGFBP-2 levels, suggesting that malnutrition was not responsible for the high IGFBP-2 concentrations in these patients. IGFBP-2 levels did not differ significantly according to tumor secretion or mitotane treatment. In a follow-up study, plasma IGFBP-2 concentration remained stable in patients with complete remission or stabilized disease and was a late marker of tumor progression in patients with progressive metastatic disease.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that plasma IGFBP-2 is elevated in patients with malignant adrenocortical tumors and that the major factor affecting IGFBP-2 levels in these patients is tumor stage. However, plasma IGFBP-2 was less sensitive than expected for a tumor marker, which may limit its value in the diagnosis and follow-up of adrenocortical carcinoma.

Hormonal and metabolic effects of radiotherapy in acromegaly: long-term results in 128 patients followed in a single center

Conventional radiotherapy is usually indicated in acromegaly when surgery fails to normalize GH secretion. However, the benefits of radiotherapy are delayed. This has raised questions about the potency of this treatment for reaching the safe GH level of 2.5 microg/L and for normalizing insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) levels, both of which are currently recommended as the therapeutic goal. To evaluate the long-term hormonal and metabolic effects of radiotherapy in acromegaly, a retrospective analysis was undertaken studying 128 patients followed for 11.5+/-8.5 yr (mean +/- SD) in a single center. The preradiation GH levels decreased as a function of time to 50% at 2 yr, 20% at 5 yr, and 10% at 10 yr. Basal GH levels below 2.5 microg/L were obtained in 7% of the patients at 2 yr, 35% at 5 yr, 53% at 10 yr, and 66% at 15 yr. A basal GH level below 2.5 microg/L was associated with suppression of GH below 2 microg/L during an oral glucose tolerance test and normalization of IGF-I levels in 9 of 10 patients. Preradiation GH levels was the sole factor that could predict the delay in GH fall to below 2.5 microg/L (P = 0.008). At the last follow-up, IGF-I levels were normalized in 79% of the patients (37 of 47; mean follow-up, 15.0+/-11.3 yr). In the 32 patients presenting with diabetes mellitus, improvement of glucose tolerance was associated with lower GH levels after treatment (35+/-78 microg/L in the group of 13 patients still presenting diabetes; 9+/-12 microg/L in the group of 4 patients with glucose intolerance; 5+/-8 microg/L in the 14 patients with normal glucose tolerance; P = 0.04). Ten years after termination of radiotherapy gonadotroph, thyreotroph and corticotroph deficiencies were observed in 80%, 78%, and 82% of the patients, respectively. In conclusion, conventional radiotherapy can reduce GH levels below the optimal level of 2.5 microg/L and normalize IGF-I levels in acromegaly. However, the incidence of late hypopituitarism is high, and the delay to obtain this safe GH secretory status can be long, depending on the preradiation GH level. These parameters should be considered when adjuvant therapy is needed after surgery.

Alterations of the 11p15 imprinted region and the IGFs system in a case of recurrent non-islet-cell tumour hypoglycaemia (NICTH)

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Non-islet-cell tumour hypoglycaemia (NICTH) is a rare disorder and has been explained by oversecretion of non mature IGF-II and dysregulation of the IGFs sytem. The mechanisms responsible for tumoural IGF-II overexpression in NICTH have been rarely studied. We report an extensive study of IGF-II and IGFBPs as well as chromosome 11p15 gene expression regulation in a case of a pleural fibrosarcoma in a 63-year-old patient presenting with NICTH.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Abnormal high molecular weight precusor forms of IGF-II were present in the patient's serum and were associated with dramatic alterations in the circulating levels of IGF-I, IGF-II and their binding proteins, as well as an inhibition of the somatotroph axis. These alterations returned to normal following complete surgical removal of the tumour. No structural change in chromosome 11p15 region was apparent in the tumour. However, dysregulation of this imprinted region was demonstrated, leading to the loss of imprinting of the IGF-II gene associated with high IGF-II expression, and by contrast decreased level of expression of H19 and p57KIP2 genes. Recurrence of the tumour four years latter was not associated with hypoglycaemia or changes in the levels of circulating IGFs or IGFBPs, despite IGF-II overexpression by the tumour. This suggests that a large tumour volume is required to reach high enough levels to cause changes in the levels of circulating IGFs and IGFBPs, and to cause hypoglycaemia.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that a dysregulation of gene expression and imprinting of chromosome 11p15 region is associated with tumour growth and IGF-II overexpression in non-islet-cell tumour hypoglycaemia.

[Iodine 131 uptake by a bronchogenic cyst in a patient with differentiated carcinoma of the thyroid gland]

BACKGROUND

After thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma, extracervical uptake of iodine 131 is suggestive of metastasic dissemination. False positives can however occur.

CASE REPORT

Differentiated thyroid carcinoma was found in a female patient with a non-functional nodule. Two years after subtotal thyroidectomy and an ablative dose of iodine 131, the whole body scan showed abdominal mediastinal uptake with low serum thyroglobulin level. Considering the possibility of tumor recurrence or lymph node metastasis, the mass was excised. The histology diagnosis was mediastinal bronchogenic cyst.

DISCUSSION

To date, iodine uptake in a bronchogenic cyst has not been reported among other false-positives previously described. The pathophysiology of this iodine 131 uptake in a bronchogenic cyst is still unknown: the presence of NIS symporter or a protein which can organify iodine in the mucus cells of the cyst remains to be proven.

Outcome in patients with adrenal incidentaloma selected for surgery: an analysis of 88 cases investigated in a single clinical center

OBJECTIVE

The study was designed to evaluate the clinical, endocrinological and radiological parameters used to investigate adrenal incidentalomas and select patients for surgery.

DESIGN AND METHODS

An analysis of 88 consecutive patients with adrenal incidentaloma selected for surgery and investigated in a single clinical center was performed.

RESULTS

Mean (+/-s.d.) age of the patients was 53+/-14 years. Fourteen (16%) of the adrenal incidentalomas were malignant tumors (2 adrenocortical carcinomas, 3 metastases, 4 adenocarcinomas, 4 sarcomas and 1 mesenchymoma), 10 (11%) were pheochromocytomas, 32 (36%) were non-secretory benign adrenal adenomas and the remaining were benign adrenal (n = 8; 9%) or extra-adrenal (n = 24; 27%) masses. Endocrinological investigations revealed 1 Conn adenoma, 4 tumors responsible for Cushing's syndrome or silent hypercortisolism and 1 androgen secreting tumor. Abnormalities of endocrine evaluations were observed in the 2 malignant adrenocortical carcinomas. Elevated 24-h urinary metanephrine levels were observed in the 9 pheochromocytomas tested. Complications of surgery occurred in 14% of the cases. Regardless of the endocrine status, parameters associated with malignant tumors were: older age (mean age of patients harboring malignant tumors vs patients with benign incidentalomas: 62+/-17 years vs 52+/-13 years, P = 0.005), weight loss (39% vs 7%, P = 0. 005), and mass diameter greater than 60mm (69% vs 15%, P < 0.001). By multiple logistic regression analysis malignant tumors were associated with increased age, diameter greater than 60mm and bilateral masses.

CONCLUSION

This study points to a high rate of pheochromocytomas and malignant tumors in patients selected for surgery. This high rate differs from some previous reports and might be explained by the criteria used to select patients for surgery. Among these two groups of tumors, careful systematic endocrinological investigations allow the detection of altered secretion in the vast majority - if not all - malignant tumors of adrenal origin and pheochromocytomas. Only 5% of the incidentalomas below 30 mm selected for surgery in this study were malignant, in keeping with the use of this criteria as an important parameter to select patients with normal hormonal investigations for careful follow-up.

[Ovarian endometriosis cyst with iodine 131 uptake : first case of false positive in the follow up for differentiated thyroid carcinoma]

A whole body scan is performed after a radioiodine treatment in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma. This scan is useful coupled with thyroglobulin level for the patient's management. When unusual uptake is found, investigations have to be done to eliminate thyroid metastasis. A 28-year old woman underwent a total thyroidectomy for micro papillary carcinoma. Two years and a half after, ultrasonography of the neck showed a small lymph node in homolateral side of carcinoma. It was decided to begin treatment with iodine 131. The post-therapeutic scan showed an abnormal pelvic uptake. IRM found no osseous abnormality but an ovarian lesion. After surgery, histological diagnosis was an endometriosis cyst without thyroid or tumoral cells. Abdominal ou pelvic iodine false positive are rare. Ovarian cysts may be the cause of false positive radioiodine uptake. Endometriosis cyst was not previously described and the mecanism of iodine uptake is not clear.

Goldmann perimetry in acromegaly: a survey of 307 cases from 1951 through 1996

OBJECTIVE

Because visual pathway lesions are a common complication of pituitary tumors, visual field examinations in patients with acromegaly were studied. Proportion and outcome of visual field defects in patients with acromegaly were evaluated.

DESIGN

Large, retrospective case series.

PARTICIPANTS

We reviewed 307 cases of acromegaly seen from 1951 through 1996 at a single referral center.

METHODS

Kinetic visual field testing had been performed with the Goldmann perimeter, and the frequency of visual field defects and their correlation with other clinical manifestations and characteristics of the adenoma were examined.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Repeat visual field examinations.

RESULTS

Of the 307 patients included in the analysis, a visual field defect that could be attributed to the pituitary adenoma was observed in 62 (20.2%) during follow-up. Visual field defects were bilateral in 38 (61.3%) of these cases. Patients with visual field abnormalities were significantly younger (P = 0.04), had larger tumors (P < 0.001), had more suprasellar extensions (P < 0.001), and had higher levels of growth hormone in their serum (P = 0.04) than patients free of visual field defects. At the end of the follow-up period, visual field examination remained abnormal in 32 (10.4%). Return to a normal visual field examination after treatment was more frequently observed in patients who were less than 40 years of age at the time of diagnosis (P = 0.004). Secondary empty sella syndrome was the main cause of visual field defects after treatment. Abnormal visual field, either at the time of diagnosis or during follow-up, decreased from 27% of patients between 1951 and 1975 to 15.4% of patients between 1976 and 1996, when modern neuroimaging techniques became available.

CONCLUSIONS

Endocrinologic and neuroimaging follow-up of patients with acromegaly should be accompanied by ophthalmic assessment. Factors predictive of visual field defects have been identified.

[Pituitary metastases. 3 cases]

OBJECTIVE

Review cases with hyothalamo-hypophyseal metastases which raise complex therapeutic situations.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Files of patients hospitalized from 1992 to 1996 at the Cochin Hospital Endocrinology unit were compared with data reported in the literature.

RESULTS

We had patients with pituitary metastases from breast cancer and 69 cases have been reported in the literature: 72 patients, 57% men and 43% women, mean age 57.2 +/- 12.3 years. The primary tumor was identified in 58.3% of the cases. The primary cancer was unknown and revealed by the pituitary metastasis in 41.7% of the cases. The primary tumor was a breast cancer in 31.9% of the cases, and lung cancer in 30.5%. The main clinical signs were vision disorders (40.3%) and diabetes insipisus (29.1%). The principal differential diagnosis was hypophyseal adenoma. Short term prognosis was not good.

DISCUSSION

These data are in agreement with the older literature excepting the high prevalence of primary cancers revealed by pituitary metastasis, probably a result of progress in hypophyseal exploration techniques.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of pituitary metastasis will continue to increase with longer survival in cancer patients. Metastasis should thus be entertained as a possibility in patients with a hypothalamo-hypophyseal tumor, particularly after the age of 59, in order to hasten diagnosis and provide early treatment.

[Aberrant expression of the GIP (Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide) receptor in an adrenal cortical adenoma responsible for a case of food-dependent Cushing's syndrome]

A 33 year old woman was investigated for an atypical case of Cushing's syndrome with suppressed early morning plasma cortisols. Chronic hypercortisolism was confirmed by classical biological criteria (24 h urinary cortisol excretion, dexamethasone suppression tests); more detailed dynamic and pharmacological tests revealed unanticipated features: spontaneous circadian plasma cortisol variations showed post prandial peaks; they could be induced by oral--but not intravenous--glucose tolerance tests, and were inhibited by the concomitant administration of Sandostatin (a somatostatin analog). Adrenal CT scan identified a 2 cm unilateral adenoma with ipsilateral and contralateral atrophy. Surgical removal of the tumor cured the hypercortisolism with hypocortisolism. Comparative analysis of the tumoral and normal tissues showed that only the former responded in vitro to GIP (Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide) and contained the specific mRNA of the GIP receptor. This case illustrates a new pathophysiological mechanism of tumorigenesis due to the aberrant expression of a seven transmembrane domain receptor in a tumoral tissue. The nature of the given receptor induced a particular clinical phenotype related to food intake.

[Imaging of adrenal incidentalomas]

Imaging plays an important role in evaluating fortuitously discovered adrenal masses. These unanticipated masses (incidentalomas) are usually discovered at CT examinations. Although most incidentally discovered adrenal tumors are non-hyperfunctioning adenomas, they must be distinguished from primary or secondary malignant lesions. Recent studies have established that both unenhanced CT scans and chemical shift MR imaging can accurately differentiate benign adenomas from nonadenomatous masses by features that reflect the large amount of lipid found in most adenomas and absent in most nonadenomas. We review here the current imaging issues concerning adrenal incidentalomas including diagnostic approaches and management.

[Membrane receptors and endocrine tumors: expression of vasopressin receptor V1 modulates the pharmacologic phenotype of adrenocortical tumors]

A retrospective analysis of 26 adrenocortical tumors responsible for Cushing's syndrome showed that vasopressin induced an ACTH-independent cortisol response in seven cases (27%). In comparison 68 of 90 patients with Cushing's disease (76%) had a positive cortisol response. The mRNA for the V1-type vasopressin receptor was detected in normal adrenal cortex and in all tumors, and adenomas had higher levels than carcinomas. One adenoma which had a brisk cortisol response in vivo, also had in vitro cortisol responses that were inhibited by a specific V1 antagonist. In situ hybridization showed the presence of V1 mRNA in the normal and tumoral adrenal cortex. We conclude that the vasopressin V1 receptor gene is expressed in normal and tumoral adrenocortical cells. High--and not ectopic--expression occurs in a minority of tumors which become directly responsive to vasopressin stimulation.

[Diabetes insipidus with a hypothalamo-hypophyseal morphologic anomaly during a pregnancy]

BACKGROUND

Diabetes insipidus is uncommon in pregnancy. Despite physiological modifications in hydroelectrolytic balance during normal pregnancy, the capacity of the kidney to concentrate urine is preserved, partially due to lower vasopressin secretion.

CASE REPORT

A young woman developed diabetes insipidus during the third trimester of normal pregnancy. The disease regressed totally after delivery. However, magnetic resonance imaging revealed a persistent expansive intrasellar image with a high-intensity signal.

DISCUSSION

Onset of diabetes insipidus is usually rapidly progressive in pregnancy. Occurring generally during the third trimester in normal pregnancies, diabetes insipidus is generally well tolerated and responds to dDAVP, usually without pituitary abnormally, and regresses after delivery. Two types are distinguished: partially latent diabetes insipidus occurring during pregnancy and due to a central rather than nephrogenic origin; and excessive vasopressinase activity leading to diabetes insipidus usually associated with liver anomalies and high frequency of pre-eclampsia. During normal pregnancy, the size of the anterior pituitary increases and the normal high-intensity signal in the posterior pituitary seen on MRI usually regresses or disappears. In diabetes insipidus, the posterior pituitary hypersignal image generally disappears, reflecting reduced vasopressin storage. Few observations of diabetes insipidus occurring during pregnancy have been reported with morphological explorations. Most have described a "normal" aspect of the pituitary, specifically in the post partum period. In our patient, the weak vasopressin response to the end of water restriction at post partum when the diabetes insipidus symptoms had disappeared would suggest partial central diabetes insipidus revealed by pregnancy. Other pathologies involving this region could also be involved due to the unusual and persistent sellar image, with an expansive process showing a high intensity signal on MRI. An asymptomatic craniopharyngioma cyst was hypothesized and would be more compatible with the observed symptoms.

Variable expression of the V1 vasopressin receptor modulates the phenotypic response of steroid-secreting adrenocortical tumors

We studied the putative role of the vasopressin receptors in the phenotypic response of steroid-secreting adrenocortical tumors. A retrospective analysis of a series of 26 adrenocortical tumors responsible for Cushing's syndrome (19 adenomas and 7 carcinomas) showed that vasopressin (10 IU, i.m., lysine vasopressin) induced an ACTH-independent cortisol response (arbitrarily defined as a cortisol rise above baseline of 30 ng/mL or more) in 7 cases (27%). In comparison, 68 of 90 patients with Cushing's disease (76%) had a positive cortisol response. We then prospectively examined the expression of vasopressin receptor genes in adrenocortical tumors of recently operated patients (20 adenomas and 19 adrenocortical carcinomas). We used highly sensitive and specific quantitative RT-PCR techniques for each of the newly characterized human vasopressin receptors: V1, V2, and V3. The V1 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was detected in normal adrenal cortex and in all tumors. Its level varied widely between 2.0 x 10(2) and 4.4 x 10(5) copies/0.1 microgram total RNA, and adenomas had significantly higher levels than carcinomas, although there was a large overlap. Among the 6 recently operated patients who had been subjected to the vasopressin test in vivo, the tumor V1 mRNA levels were higher in the 4 responders (9.5 x 10(3) to 5.0 x 10(4)) than in the 2 nonresponders (2.0 x 10(2) and 1.8 x 10(3)). One adenoma that had a brisk cortisol response in vivo, also had in vitro cortisol responses that were inhibited by a specific V1 antagonist. In situ hybridization showed the presence of V1 mRNA in the normal human adrenal cortex where the signal predominated in the compact cells of the zona reticularis. A positive signal was also present in the tumors with high RT-PCR V1 mRNA levels; its distribution pattern was heterogeneous and showed preferential association with compact cells. RT-PCR studies for the other vasopressin receptors showed a much lower signal for V2 and no evidence for V3 mRNA. We could not establish whether the V2 mRNA signal observed in normal and tumoral specimens was present within adrenocortical cells or merely within tissue vessels. We conclude that the vasopressin V1 receptor gene is expressed in normal and tumoral adrenocortical cells. High, and not ectopic, expression occurs in a minority of tumors that become directly responsive to vasopressin stimulation tests.

[Cushing's syndrome]

The adrenal origin of hypercorticism is established by usual hormonal and morphological investigations. Adrenal causes of Cushing syndrome are mainly due to unilateral tumours. In some cases, the remaining difficulty is evaluation of prognosis. Here, the contribution of molecular biology is likely to be major. To better understand the mechanisms of adrenal tumourigenesis, it seems essential to seek the factors modulating steroidogenesis and adrenal cells proliferation.

[Adrenal incidentalomas]

Since the early 1980s, incidentally discovered adrenal masses have become a common clinical problem as a result of the more widespread use of abdominal imaging procedures. Once identified, an adrenal lesion must be characterized as to its functional status and malignant potential. The evaluation of these masses include clinical, hormonal, radiological and scintigraphic data. Optimal treatment of these patients require an agreement between endocrinologist, radiologist and surgeon. The presence of an hypersecretion will prompt a surgical intervention. In the vast majority of cases, the mass will be hormonally nonhypersecretory. Than the possibility of primary or metastatic malignancy must be excluded. The arguments for benign nonhypersecretory mass are mainly a enhanced CT attenuation coefficient of 0 HU or less, a small size (< or = 3 cm of diameter), typical feature of benign mass on CT scan. In the presence of those features non further investigation are necessary, and a reevaluation will be done regularly. We recommended surgery for adrenals at high risk of malignancy: 1. CT attenuation coefficient of more than 10 HU; 2. large (> 5 cm) diameter or increase in size at any reevaluation; 3. picture of intratumoral necrosis, hemorrhage or irregular margins.

[Failure of synthcen to diagnose corticotropin insufficiency]

It is commonly believed that a normal cortisol response to exogenous ACTH (synacthen test) reliably indicates, with the exception of states of acute ACTH deprivation, the integrity of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical function. Published evidence has shown that the synacthen test is not sensitive enough to reveal partial ACTH deficiency leading to a subnormal ACTH response to stress. We report a patient who maintained a normal response to exogenous ACTH stimulation despite symptomatic chronic ACTH deficiency in unstressed conditions. A normal cortisol response in the synacthen test does not therefore exclude the possibility of clinically relevant ACTH deficiency.

[Possibilities and limits of surgical treatment of malignant adrenal cortex carcinomas. Apropos of a series of 74 cases]

The aim of this study was to report our experience of 74 patients operated on for adrenocortical carcinomas in the last 15 years with particular reference to survival rate and prognostic factors. The tumors were secreting in 78% of the cases and non secreting in 22% of the cases, encompassing stade I: 7%, stade II: 43%, stade III: 21%, stade IV: 29%, according to the MacFarlane classification. All patients were operated on whatever the stade. Adrenalectomy with regional lymphadectomy was performed in 50% of the cases. Other procedures included extended adrenalectomy with nephrectomy (n = 27), hepatectomy (n = 7), and desobstruction or resection of inferior vena cava (n = 13). The resection was curative for 66% of the patients and palliative in 34% of the patients. Local recurrences were operated on in 13 patients. Operative mortality was 4%. Stade I and II had significantly the best actuarial survival rates (78 and 62% at 5 years, respectively), when compared to stade III (27%). Extension to the vena cava was not considered as a contra indication even in cases of massive extension. The survival rate of patients with local recurrences was the same as patients wich stade III: 32% at 5 years. Stade IV tumors had the poorer prognosis with a survival rate of 5% at 3 years. In this group, some patients may have benefited from mitotane. Further studies are mandatory to appreciate the benefit of adjuvant therapy with mitotane and palliative chemotherapy.

[POEMS syndrome with primary adrenocortical insufficiency]

BACKGROUND

POEMS syndrome is a multisystem disorder. It usually presents as severe polyneuropathy and monoclonal gammapathy associated with endocrinopathies, organomegaly, skin hyperpigmentation.

CASE REPORT

A patient with POEMS syndrome developed primary adrenocortical deficiency revelated by asthenia and hyperpigmentation. Hydrocortisone replacement therapy produced a rapidly beneficial effect on asthenia and hyperpigmentation.

DISCUSSION

Although asthenia and skin pigmentation are common in POEMS syndrome, adrenocortical deficiency is seldom reported. This endocrinopathy might be underestimated in POEMS patients. We suggest systematic screening with a rapid ACTH test in all POEMS patients in order to detect underlying adrenal deficiency.

[Bilateral video-endoscopic adrenalectomy in Cushing's disease. Experience in 24 patients]

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy (BLA) to bilateral open adrenalectomy (BOA) in the treatment of Cushing's disease. Twenty-four patients (23 Cushing's disease, 1 congenital adrenal hyperplasia) were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 patients (n = 15) underwent BCA using the lateral transabdominal approach, Group while 2 patients (n = 9) underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy on one side and conventional open adrenalectomy on the contralateral side. Groups 1 and 2 were compared retrospectively to 15 patients (Group 3) who underwent BOA as part of larger series of 61 patients. There was no difference in the degree of hypercortisolism in the 3 groups. At the beginning of the experience, the duration of surgery was longer in Groups 1 and 2 compared to the open surgery group, but this difference subsequently decreased during the study. There was no difference in intraoperative blood loss or transfusion rate. Group 1 patients experienced fewer wound and intraabdominal complications and less postoperative pain, shorter hospitalization, and quicker recovery than groups 2 and 3 patients. Technically obesity and tissue fragility are easily overcome by the laparoscopic approach. BCA also achieves success rate of hypercortisolism correction. In conclusion, BLA is the surgical procedure of choice for the treatment of Cushing's disease when surgical therapy is indicated.

Superior oblique tendon resection or inferior oblique muscle recession in vertical deviations

This study reports the results on patients undergoing superior oblique (SO) tendon resections with or without inferior oblique (IO) muscle recession to correct vertical deviations. The design of this study was nonrandomized, baseline-controlled, and postsurgical versus presurgical and was performed in a solo practice affiliated with a university ophthalmology department. One hundred ninety-five patients underwent surgery. Patients were evaluated presurgically and postoperatively in the major fields of muscle action. Resections were based on measurements at 14 inches in the field of major function of the SO. The surgical approach was a radial, rather than circumferential, incision extending from the limbus to the tarsus parallel to the lateral border of the superior rectus, followed by resection of the SO tendon. Surgery resulted in improved fusion in 78% of the cases. Average deviation in the left superior oblique field in SO tendon resection only (n = 14) was reduced from 11.0 to 1.7 prism diopters, and fusion improved 85% after treatment. In 181 cases of SO tendon resection or IO recession, the left superior oblique field was reduced from 15.8 to 3.6 diopters. SO tendon resection was successfully utilized to treat underacting SO muscle and vertical deviations. A radial incision facilitated the surgical procedure, and its use is recommended to those performing the surgery.

[Differentiated thyroid carcinomas manifesting as toxic adenoma]

BACKGROUND

Hot thyroid nodules are generally benign. We report two exceptional cases of thyroid carcinomas mimicking toxic adenomas.

CASE REPORTS

A 35-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman had thyroid carcinoma behaving as an autonomously hyperfunctioning nodule.

DISCUSSION

Only twenty similar cases have been reported in the literature. While a hot nodule on radio-iodine scan is unlikely to be malignant, the possibility of carcinoma should not be overlooked. Surgery should therefore be the preferred treatment of toxic adenoma.

[Ectopic ACTH secretion: a heterogeneous entity]

OBJECTIVES

ACTH-secreting non-pituitary tumors are a rare cause of Cushing's disease. We report the clinical course, prognostic aspects and molecular analysis data in three patients for whom the diagnosis was confirmed but who had variable clinical features and laboratory results.

CASE REPORTS

Patient n degree 1 had severe hypercorticism which rapidly progressed to death 13 months after diagnosis. In patient n degree 2, signs of hypercorticism severe, leading to death 5 years after discovery of the causal carcinoid tumor. Patient n degree 3 had moderate hypercorticism and has survived for more than 25 years.

DISCUSSION

These 3 ectopic tumors are representative examples of a wide range of possible ACTH-secreting ectopic tumors. In highly malignant poorly-differentiated tumors such as small-cell anaplastic carcinomas, ACTH production is aberrant and poorly controlled, and thus not particularly effective. At the other extreme, typical benign bronchial carcinomas have a high degree of neuroendocrine differentiation and secrete ACTH in a well-controlled manner difficult to distinguish from corticotropic adenomas, further exaggerating the diagnostic pitfalls.

Structural and functional abnormalities at 11p15 are associated with the malignant phenotype in sporadic adrenocortical tumors: study on a series of 82 tumors

Abnormalities of the 11p15 region with overexpression of the normally imprinted insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) gene have been implicated in the pathogenesis of adrenocortical tumors. We evaluated the frequency and distribution of 11p15 loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and IGF-II gene overexpression in a series of 82 sporadic adrenocortical tumors, screened for pathological functional imprinting of the 11p15 region in tumors not exhibiting LOH and evaluated the expression of H19 gene in these tumors. Abnormalities of the 11p15 region as LOH (loss of the maternal allele and duplication of the paternal allele) and/or IGF-II gene overexpression are frequent features of the malignant state and were found in 27 of 29 (93.1%) of the malignant tumors and in only 3 of 35 (8.6%) of the benign tumors. Tumors without abnormality of the 11p15 region (mainly benign tumors) did not exhibit pathological functional imprinting. In tumors with mosaicism for 11p15 LOH, biallelic expression of the IGF-II gene was constant in the tumor cell contingent not undergoing LOH. Abrogation of H19 expression correlated with the loss of the maternal allele (LOH or pathological imprinting), but did not always correlate with overexpression of the IGF-II gene. These data indicate the involvement of dysregulation of the 11p15 region in late steps of adrenocortical tumorigenesis and provide us with new molecular markers for a better diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of adrenocortical tumors.

Technetium-99m sestamibi scintigraphy, magnetic resonance imaging and venous blood sampling in persistent and recurrent hyperparathyroidism

Surgical treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) is effective in 90% of cases. Recurrent or persistent HPT occurs in 10% of cases. Parathyroid imaging is indicated to confirm and locate an abnormal gland before reoperation. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the combination of 99Tcm sestamibi scintigraphy, MRI and venous blood sampling (VBS) improved the overall sensitivity for abnormal parathyroid gland detection. 18 patients with recurrent or persistent HPT underwent sestamibi scintigraphy (n = 18), MRI (T1 weighted and STIR sequences) (n = 18) and venous blood sampling (n = 12) at different sites (internal jugular veins, innominate veins, and superior vena cava). All patients underwent surgical exploration. MRI yielded positive results in 15 cases (sensitivity 88%), sestamibi scintigraphy in 14 cases (83%) and VBS in 10 cases out of 12 (83%). Combined results of MRI, sestamibi and VBS yielded positive results in 16 cases (94%). The combination of MRI, sestamibi scintigraphy and VBS improved accuracy in detecting abnormal parathyroid glands before reoperation.

[Assay of salivary cortisol. An interesting method for exploring the adrenal cortex]

AN INTERESTING METHOD FOR PATIENTS AND PHYSICIANS: Measurement of salivary cortisol has not modified the investigation of hospitalized patients but offers very original possibilities for exploring outpatients. REPEAT MEASUREMENTS AND STIMULATION TESTS: As for serum cortisol levels, repeat measurements or stimulation tests are required for reliable evaluation of salivary cortisol. SEVERAL APPLICATIONS: Salivary cortisol level can be an appropriate tool in screening for adrenal insufficiency, using the short ACTH injection test, evaluating hypercorticism through the circadian cycle of cortisol and overnight dexamethasone suppression test either at the physician's office or in the patient's home. In addition, long-term follow-up is possible for outpatients investigated or treated for Cushing's syndrome.

[Magnetic resonance imaging in Cushing disease. Prediction of surgical results]

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the study is to determine if pituitary Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can predict the outcome of transsphenoidal surgery in patients with Cushing's disease.

METHODS

Fifty four patients were divided in three groups according to MRI findings: those with a well circumscribed focal lesion clearly separated from the cavernous sinus (group 1, n = 24), those with adenomas in close contact with the cavernous sinus (group 2, n = 18), and those with no identified lesion (group 3, n = 12).

RESULTS

The adenoma is found on the predicted side in 97,6% of the cases with positive MRI. A histologically proven adenoma is found in 96, 100 and 33% of the cases in groups 1, 2 and 3, with successful outcome in 91, 94 and 58% of the patients respectively. In group 2, surgery failed in a patient in whom tumoral tissue surrounded the internal carotid artery, but succeeded in two other cases in whom a MRI involvement of the cavernous sinus was suspected.

CONCLUSION

We confirm the excellent localization value of MRI. Failure due to cavernous sinus involvement can be predicted only when MRI shows that the adenomatous tissue surrounds the carotid artery. In cases of negative MRI, the outcome is less favorable.

High plasma proopiomelanocortin in aggressive adrenocorticotropin-secreting tumors

A specific propiomelanocortin (POMC) immunoradiometric assay was developed using antibodies directed against ACTH and beta-endorphin (beta end). Partially purified standard POMC was prepared from the human small cell lung carcinoma cell line DMS-79 culture medium. Ten units (U) POMC had the same displacement ability as one pg beta end in a C-terminal beta end radioimmunoassay and thus were close if not equal to 10 pg POMC. This POMC assay was used to investigate patients with ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome. Plasma POMC was undetectable (< 60 U/mL) in 17 normal controls and in 4 patients with Addison's disease (concomitant ACTH plasma levels between 362 and 1058 pg/mL). Forty-two patients with Cushing's disease were studied, either before (n = 25) or after (n = 17) bilateral adrenalectomy: 7 patients with highly invasive macroadenomas had high POMC plasma levels, between 240 and 4200 U/ml (concomitant ACTH plasma levels between 77 and 5730 pg/mL); 35 patients, including one with an invasive macroadenoma, had undetectable POMC plasma levels (concomitant ACTH plasma levels between 31 and 2820 pg/mL). Among 20 patients with histologically proven ectopic ACTH syndrome, 16 had high POMC plasma levels, between 80 and 8000 U/mL (concomitant ACTH plasma levels between 45 and 9265 pg/mL); all those tumors were malignant, and the highest POMC/ACTH plasma levels ratios (taken as an index of altered POMC processing) were observed in the 3 patients with small cell carcinomas of the lung; in one of these patients, ACTH and POMC plasma levels both decreased during the course of chemotherapy, in parallel with the reduction of the tumoral mass. Four patients with ectopic ACTH syndrome had undetectable POMC plasma levels (concomitant ACTH plasma levels between 78 and 335 pg/mL): they were all typical bronchial carcinoids. These data show that high POMC plasma level is neither specific for nor constant in ectopic ACTH syndrome. Rather it should be considered as a marker of tumor aggressivity, in pituitary- and non-pituitary tumors. Its diagnostic help appears limited for the most frequent cause of occult ectopic ACTH syndrome, the typical bronchial carcinoids.

Role and operative risk of bilateral adrenalectomy in hypercortisolism

Transsphenoidal pituitary surgery has radically modified the management of pituitary-dependent hypercortisolism (Cushing's disease). Bilateral adrenalectomy may, however, represent the ultimate treatment in some cases of hypercortisolism. In the present study we report our experience of bilateral adrenalectomy in 82 patients operated on during the last 15 years. The causes of hypercortisolism were Cushing's disease (n = 78), ectopic ACTH syndrome (n = 3), and primary adrenocortical nodular dysplasia (Carney-Meador syndrome) (n = 1). Before operation 37% of the patients had severe symptoms of hypercortisolism. A bilateral posterior approach was undertaken in 58 patients, whereas 18 patients had an anterior transabdominal approach and 6 patients a laparoscopic approach. There were two operative deaths (2.4%). Postoperative complications occurred mostly in cases of advanced disease and were observed in 14 patients (17%), among whom 4 had severe complications. At long-term follow-up, one recurrence of hypercortisolism and 12 Nelson syndromes (15%) were observed. In conclusion, bilateral adrenalectomy carries an acceptable operative risk, and we recommend bilateral adrenalectomy rather than long-term suppressive therapy in patients requiring prompt and definitive control of their hypercortisolism or after pituitary surgery failure.

[Cushing's disease]

Patients with Cushing's disease usually present typical clinical and biological features easily leading to the diagnosis. However very atypical presentations of the disease do exist especially in the intermittent forms and several investigations are often necessary to detect pituitary microadenoma wich sometimes is inconspicuous. The course of the disease can be serious and might responsible of definitive sequellas wich can threaten patient's life. Therefore rapid treatment is recommended. Pituitary surgery should be considered as the major therapeutic approach; however, in severe cases or when pituitary-directed treatments or OP'DDD have failed, total bilateral adrenalectomy should be proposed.

[Lymphocytic hypophysitis: a reality]

Lymphocytic hypophysitis is a rare entity; we report here three cases. This condition usually occurs in women during pregnancy or in the post-partum period. Pituitary enlargement is associated with complete or partial hypopituitarism. The difficulty in diagnosis is well illustrated by our cases and results from the similarity between the clinical and biological signs of adenoma and hypophysitis. Circulating antipituitary antibodies are not constantly found and are nonspecific, evidence only of the autoimmune nature of hypophysitis. Thus the diagnosis has to be undertaken in all suspected cases in pregnant women or during the post-partum period. The clinical course may be very long, emphasizing the need for rigorous long-term observation. The pituitary gland is commonly enlarged and homogenous in lymphocytic hypophysitis, but in our third case the enlargement was heterogeneous with associated cyst formation. We suggest that the inflammatory process could have been maintained by the presence of cysts. Finally, corticosteroids are the therapy of choice in the inflammatory stage and should be undertaken as soon as the diagnosis has been established. Regular surveillance is required.

[The place of endocrinology in the management of transsexualism]

Transsexualism is not a sexual perversion but rather a gender identity disorder. The patient claim for his personal and public image and condition. The diagnosis problems arise from the lack of clinical, biological or hormonal typical signs. The pathogenesis is unclear but works in progress suggest somatic alterations. These alterations might be pre or perinatal hormonal changes and/or alterations in cerebral structures involved in sexual differentiation. Transsexualism is not a treatable disease using currently available treatments. Only hormonal and surgical treatments with sex reassignment might answer to the patient's request and improve his mental condition. Hormonal treatment might only prescribed after a consensus statement of about the sex reassignment of the patient and under medical follow-up. An early and strict medical follow-up of the patients by a multi specialist medical team is required and have to warrant the etic aspects. This is mostly important for the approval for sex reassignment from the authorities.

The pituitary V3 vasopressin receptor and the corticotroph phenotype in ectopic ACTH syndrome

Ectopic ACTH secretion occurs in highly differentiated and rather indolent tumors like bronchial carcinoids or, in contrast, in various types of aggressive and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumors. We explored this phenomenon using the recently cloned human pituitary V3 vasopressin receptor as an alternate molecular marker of the corticotroph phenotype. Expression of V3 receptor, corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) receptor, and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) genes was examined in tumors of pituitary and nonpituitary origin. A comparative RT-PCR approach revealed signals for both V3 receptor and CHR receptor mRNAs in 17 of 18 ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas, and 6 of 6 normal pituitaries; in six growth hormone- or prolactin-secreting adenomas, a very faint V3 receptor signal was observed in three cases, and CRH receptor signal was undetected in all. Six of eight bronchial carcinoids responsible for the ectopic ACTH syndrome had both POMC and V3 receptor signals as high as those in ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas; in contrast, no POMC signal and only a very faint V3 receptor signal were detected in six of eight nonsecreting bronchial carcinoids. Northern blot analysis showed V3 receptor mRNA of identical size in ACTH-secreting bronchial carcinoids and pituitary tumors. Other types of nonpituitary tumors responsible for ectopic ACTH syndrome presented much lower levels of both POMC and V3 receptor gene expression than those found in ACTH-secreting bronchial carcinoids. In contrast with the V3 receptor, CRH receptor mRNA was detected in the majority of neuroendocrine tumors irrespective of their POMC status. These results show that expression of the V3 receptor gene participates in the corticotroph phenotype. Its striking association with ACTH-secreting bronchial carcinoids defines a subset of nonpituitary tumors in which ectopic POMC gene expression is but one aspect of a wider process of corticotroph cell differentiation, and opens new possibilities of pharmacological investigations and even manipulations of this peculiar ACTH hypersecretory syndrome.

[Riedel's thyroiditis and lymphoma. Diagnostic difficulties]

Two cases of Riedel's thyroiditis demonstrated the difficulties encountered in diagnosis. In the first case, subtotal thyroidectomy was performed due to compressive goiter. The intraoperative macroscopic aspect suggested Riedel's thyroiditis. The pathology report also discussed the diagnosis, despite a major lymphoid component, as dense fibrosis had multilated the thyroid parenchyma. Subsequent clinical course led to the diagnosis of lymphoma. The clinical presentation in the second case was classical with rapid increase in size of a hard thyroid gland. Histology was however atypical showing calcifications and liquid cysts within the fibrous thyroid tissue. The initial signs of Riedel's thyroiditis, a very rare disease, usually suggest neoplasia: ligneous compressive goiter with deep adherences. Histologically, there is invasive fibrous thyroiditis with highly suggestive occlusive phlebitis in certain cases. The origin of the disease remains obscure. The differential diagnosis between a sclerosing form and lymphoma is particularly important for therapeutic management.

Overnight dexamethasone suppression test: comparison of plasma and salivary cortisol measurement for the screening of Cushing's syndrome

The overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test is a very good screening test for subjects suspected of having Cushing's syndrome. To simplify the procedure, we evaluated the 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test with measurement of salivary cortisol. We performed this test with plasma and salivary cortisol measurements in 27 patients with Cushing's syndrome and 64 normal controls. The sensitivity and specificity of plasma cortisol measurements were 100% and 87%, respectively, for a cut-off point of 100 nmol/l, in accordance with previous studies. The results of salivary cortisol showed the absence of overlap between the two groups, with a sensitivity and specificity of 100% for a cut-off point of 2.8 nmol/l. On a larger series, however, one might occasionally miss the diagnosis of a patient with Cushing's syndrome. Therefore, we favor a cut-off point of 1.9 nmol/l, the sensitivity remaining at 100% and the specificity being 94%. In conclusion we recommend the overnight dexamethasone suppression test with measurement of salivary cortisol as a screening test for Cushing's syndrome.

Spontaneous unilateral adrenal hemorrhage: computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings in 8 cases

PURPOSE

We report and discuss the imaging features of 8 cases of spontaneous unilateral adrenal hematomas, a rare lesion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Computerized tomography (CT) was done in 8 cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 5, and CT and MRI in 5. Imaging findings were reviewed and correlated with histological findings in all 8 cases.

RESULTS

MRI was the most accurate imaging modality and showed variable appearances. On pathological evaluation the hematomas were old and organized. No contrast enhancement was noted on CT or MRI.

CONCLUSIONS

One must not consider the diagnosis of spontaneous adrenal hematoma only as superimposed on a phechromocytoma or malignant lesion in the case of an incidentally discovered large adrenal mass with normal biological findings. MRI signs of adrenal hemorrhage and the failure of enhancement of such a mass should strongly suggest adrenal hematoma.

[Granular cell tumors. Rare tumors of the neurohypophysis]

Granular cell tumours of neurohypophysis are rare. These tumours are more often encountered as incidental autopsy findings seen in up to 17% of unselected adult autopsy cases. There are few reports of parasellar granular cell tumours large enough to cause symptoms. We present three cases of neurohypophysis granular cell tumour and a review of the literature. In one patient, the asymptomatic granular cell tumour was incidentally discovered at surgical removal of a corticotroph microadenoma. The remaining 2 patients had a symptomatic tumour which caused neurological symptoms such as visual disturbance and headaches and endocrine disorders such as hypopituitarism or hyperprolactinaemia. In these 2 cases, computerized tomography showed a well-circumscribed, contrast-enhanced, intrasellar and suprasellar mass. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an isointense gadolinium-enhanced mass in T1-weighted images. Transsphenoidal partial resection was performed and histology was interpreted as a granular cell tumour. The immunohistochemical study was positive for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and neuron specific enolase (NSE) in 1 of the 2 tumours and positive for S100 protein and vimentin in both tumours but negative for CD68. The histogenesis of neurohypophysis granular cell tumours is still controversial but ultrastructural and immunohistochemical studies support the theory that they may arise from pituicytes, the glial cells of neurohypophysis. Management of these benign, slow-growing, tumours is based mainly on neurosurgical resection. Data from the literature do not support a beneficial effect of postoperative radiation therapy on postoperative recurrences.

Long-distance and long-term follow-up of a patient with intermittent Cushing's disease by salivary cortisol measurements

Salivary cortisol is an excellent indicator of the plasma free cortisol concentration in normal and pathological situations. We took advantage of its ease of sampling, allowing multiple collections at home, to follow the course of a patient with Cushing's disease living in North Africa. This 48-year-old woman presented with a clinically moderate hypercortisolism caused by a large basophilic pituitary adenoma. Bilateral extension to the cavernous sinuses precluded surgical therapy. She went into spontaneous remission based on clinical signs as well as biochemical findings. During the following 2 years she demonstrated intermittent relapses that were treated by radiotherapy (50 Gy), followed by ketoconazole and then o-paraprime-dichloro-diphenyl-dichloroethane (Op'DDD). After a prolonged clinical remission, Cushing's syndrome again became active. Bromocriptine was started without effect and a new treatment with Op'DDD was began. Evaluation and follow-up were performed during hospitalizations and mainly through the measurements of salivary cortisol in more than 100 samples sent from North Africa by air mail to our department in Paris. Thus we were able to demonstrate intermittent overproduction of cortisol before any treatment, with periods of normal and even low values, and to follow the efficacy of therapy and to detect the relapses. We conclude that measurement of salivary cortisol is a valuable tool in difficult clinical situations such as intermittent hypercortisolism and remoteness between the patient and hospital.

The RET protooncogene in sporadic pheochromocytomas: frequent MEN 2-like mutations and new molecular defects

To assess the pathophysiological role of the RET protooncogene in sporadic pheochromocytomas, we examined the 2 regions of the gene in which molecular defects are specifically associated with the multiple endocrine neoplasias (MEN) type 2A (the cysteine-rich domain encoded by exons 10 and 11), and type 2B (the tyrosine kinase domain encoded by exon 16). The sequences of both regions were amplified by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or PCR from tumor RNA and/or leukocyte DNA. The amplified fragments were analyzed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis using chemical clamps. In 28 patients with unilateral sporadic tumors, 6 RET mutations were found, 3 in the MEN 2A region, 3 in the MEN 2B region. Five patients had missense mutations: 2 in the MEN 2A region (C634W and D631Y), and 3 in the MEN 2B region (M918T). Analysis of leukocyte DNA in 3 of these patients confirmed that RET mutations were only present in tumor DNA. The sixth patient had lost exon 10 in the tumor complementary DNA as a result of the deletion of the dinucleotide -AG- at the 3'splice acceptor site of intron 9; this molecular defect was only found in the tumor DNA. Thus RET mutations of the MEN 2A and 2B regions are also found in about 20% of sporadic pheochromocytomas. We describe new types of molecular defects of the RET protooncogene in the MEN 2A region that involve noncysteine residues and loss of exon 10. Further studies should be extended to analyze the entire RET protooncogene. These findings have a profound clinical impact for the management of patients with supposedly sporadic pheochromocytomas.

Evidence of oestradiol-induced changes in gonadotrophin secretion in men with feminizing Leydig cell tumours

To study the sex steroid-gonadotrophin relationship, plasma oestradiol (E2), testosterone and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-induced (100 micrograms iv) gonadotrophin response were measured in 42 male partners of infertile couples with normal sperm count (group I) and in 21 men with Leydig cell tumour (LCT, group II) in which a basal evaluation was repeated after tumour removal. Plasma free alpha-subunit (FAS), immunoreactive alpha-inhibin and luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse analysis were assessed in 10 LCT before and in six of them after surgery. Testosterone was significantly (p < 0.01) lower whereas E2 was significantly (p < 0.001) higher in group II than in group I. Gonadotrophin data were similar in both groups. The mean FAS was higher in group II than in group I and alpha-inhibin was higher than the normal range in 6/10 LCT. In group II, E2 levels were significantly (p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with testosterone, FSH, GnRH-induced gonadotrophin rise and LH pulse amplitude but not frequency. Significant (p < 0.001) changes were observed after surgery: E2 and alpha-inhibin fell; testosterone, LH and FSH rose; whereas FAS did not change significantly. The LH pulse amplitude but not frequency increased significantly (p < 0.05). In conclusion E2 oversecreted by LCT decreased LH and testosterone levels concomitantly. The GnRH-induced gonadotrophin level rose and the LH pulse amplitude decreased when the plasma E2 level rose, whereas the pulse frequency remained unaffected. A concomitant increase in alpha-inhibin and E2 is likely to be responsible for the drop in plasma FSH levels. These data support an action of excessive amounts of E2 at pituitary level, perhaps by decreasing the sensitivity of gonadotrophs to GnRH.

[Spontaneous unilateral adrenal hematomas. 10 cases]

Spontaneous unilateral adrenal haematoma is a very rare condition. We report 10 such cases in which the pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis and for which computed tomography (CT) (n = 10) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (n = 5) were performed. The diagnosis of this condition was difficult because there was no specific clinical setting nor any specific functional disorder. CT most often revealed a large mass (> 4 cm) of one of the adrenal glands, most often displaying soft-tissue attenuation and thus not specific. However, MRI suggested the diagnosis, showing foci of hypersignal on T1-weighted images and heterogeneous masses on T2-weighted images, predominantly displaying hypersignal and not enhancing, after Gd-DTPA dynamic perfusion study. Pathologic examination of the surgical specimen confirmed either idiopathic haematoma (n = 5) or haematoma possibly associated with a small benign tumour (n = 5). The diagnosis of adrenal haematoma must be considered when an unilateral isolated large adrenal mass is discovered in an asymptomatic patient. MRI with Gd-DTPA dynamic perfusion study has to be performed and one may suggest waiting and repeat imaging (so as to follow decrease in size or signal changes) in order to avoid surgery.

Rearrangements at the 11p15 locus and overexpression of insulin-like growth factor-II gene in sporadic adrenocortical tumors

Little is known about the pathophysiology of sporadic adrenocortical tumors in adults. Because loss of heterozygosity at the 11p15 locus has been described in childhood tumors, particularly, in adrenocortical tumors, associated with the Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome and because insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) is a crucial regulator of fetal adrenal growth, we looked for structural analysis at the 11p15 locus and IGF-II gene expression in 23 sporadic adrenocortical adult tumors: 6 carcinomas (5 with Cushing's syndrome and 1 nonsecreting) and 17 benign adenomas (13 with Cushing's syndrome, 1 pure androgen secreting, and 3 nonsecreting). Twenty-one patients were informative at the 11p15 locus, and six (four carcinomas and two adenomas) of them (28.5%) exhibited 11p15 structural abnormalities in tumor DNA (five, an uniparental disomy and one, a mosaicism). In a single case that could be further studied, a paternal isodisomy was observed. Very high IGF-II mRNA contents were detected in seven tumors (30%; 5 of the 6 carcinomas and 2 of the 17 adenomas). They were particularly found in tumors with uniparental disomy at the 11p15 locus. Overall, a strong correlation existed between IGF-II mRNA contents and DNA demethylation at the IGF-II locus. These data show that genetic alterations involving the 11p15 locus were highly frequent in malignant tumors, but found only in rare adenomas. These results in combination with evidence for overexpression of IGF-II from the 11p15.5 locus suggest that abnormalities in structure and/or expression of the IGF-II gene play a role as a late event of a multistep process of tumorigenesis.