EFFECT OF HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPIN ON PLASMA CONCENTRATIONS OF 17-HYDROXYCORTICOSTEROIDS, DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE AND ANDROSTERONE IN MAN*

ABSTRACT Following the administration of chorionic gonadotropin to normal human males, a significant increase in the concentration of plasma androsterone was demonstrated. This increase was not observed in 5 normal young females. After administration of chorionic gonadotropin the diurnal variation in the concentration of plasma dehydroepiandrosterone was nearly obliterated in normal male and female subjects. Minor variations in plasma 17-hydroxycorticosteroid levels were found in both sexes. It is suggested that the administration of chorionic gonadotropin with the subsequent measurement of plasma androsterone concentration may serve as a clinical test of testicular capacity in man.