Influence of Gonads and Adrenals on Growth of Solid Ehrlich Tumor

Summary

The growth of solid Ehrlich tumor, as compared with body weight, was studied in relation to gonadal and adrenal function in Ha/ICR Swiss mice. Both tumor weight and body weight were much greater in males than in females, and castration reversed the differences. Adrenalectomy was inhibitory for tumor growth in females, but not in males. Body weight was decreased by adrenalectomy in both sexes. Hydrocortisone was generally inhibitory for both tumor weight and body weight, but increased tumor weight in females with sham surgery. Estrogen treatment in castrated females significantly reduced tumor growth, but not body weight. Testosterone administration increased body weight in castrated male mice, but had little effect on tumor weight. These findings are discussed in the light of the hormonal responsiveness of the tumor.