[Value of the study of plasma estrogens in the exploration of gynecomastia. Apropos of 48 cases].

Starting from 48 cases of gynecomastia, the authors report the following findings: -- Impairment of the testis function, as assessed by a low plasma level of testosterone, is rare. -- Basal values of gonadotropins are generally normal. -- Increased oestrogen urinary excretion and blood level are rarely found but, when present, they tend to decrease at successive evaluations. -- In six cases, plasmatic oestradiol can be suppressed by dexamethasone; although the small number of cases does not allow a definite conclusion, one might suggest a predominant adrenal source of plasmatic oestradiol.