A gonadotropin-responsive virilizing granulosa tumor.

A case of a progressive virilizing solid granulosa-theca cell tumor producing high testosterone levels that were suppressed to normal by a course of oral contraceptives is presented. In vitro studies demonstrated significant specific follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptors on the tumor. The studies of the biological response to gonadotropins in terms of cyclic AMP generation also indicate that the tumor is responsive to gonadotropic hormones in vitro, and are consistent with the in vivo clinical response. A discussion of the role of gonadotropins in the etiology or maintenance of ovarian tumors is also presented.