Thyroid cysts: a new extra-adrenal site of aldosterone synthase expression and increased aldosterone content.

Background: The rapid re-accumulation of fluid following aspiration of thyroid cystic lesions suggests that active transport of sodium and water may be involved in volume regulation of these lesions. In this study we address the possibility that aldosterone may take part in this process.

Subjects And Methods: Thirty-one patients (29 women and two men), with a mean age of 52.

Cortisol and cortisone in human follicular fluid and serum and the outcome of IVF treatment.

Background: The glucocorticoid status of ovarian follicular fluid has been linked to oocyte quality. The aim of this study was to examine whether the concentrations of cortisone and cortisol and their calculated ratios in the follicular fluid and serum samples are predictive of IVF outcome.

Methods: In the prospective study of 387 patients (420 treatment cycles) undergoing IVF treatment the concentrations of cortisone and cortisol were measured with specific assays, and their calculated ratios in the follicular fluid and serum samples obtained after ovarian stimulation and induced ovulation were determined.