THE RELATIONSHIP of the male hormone to carcinoma of the prostate has recently created widespread interest. Elimination of the male hormone from the body by castration or its counteraction through the administration of diethylstilbestrol affects the growth and activity of the carcinomatous prostate gland. Herger and Sauer (1943) have reviewed the literature on the effect of castration on the prostate gland and the clinical results following orchidectomy and treatment with diethylstilbestrol in patients with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate. A general improvement in the condition of the patient, relief from pain, and regression in size and softening of the prostate are some of the favorable clinical results obtained. The serum acid phosphatase activity immediately decreases and the serum alkaline phosphatase activity may or may not increase followed by a decrease. No changes are observed in the serum calcium and phosphorus.1 Kutscher and Wolbergs (1935) pointed out that of the human male genital organs the prostate showed the greatest acid phosphatase activity.
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Buchwald et al. (1944) studied this question.