Abstract
Five normal adult females were studied in order to determine the degree of fluctuation in plasma testosterone levels throughout the day. A small degree of diurnal variation was observed in total and free plasma testosterone levels, 8 p.m. levels averaging 80 per cent of those at 8 a.m.. The diurnal variation in total plasma 17-hydroxysteroids was more marked. Superimposed upon this cortisol-like diurnal rhythm was a small random fluctuation in testosterone levels. These latter changes were not related to plasma cortisol levels and are presumed to result from episodic ovarian secretion. In spite of the diurnal rhythm and episodic changes in plasma testosterone levels, the concentration of plasma free testosterone consistently fell within the relatively narrow range of normal for the menstrual cycle. These data indicate that an accurate, single, elevated free plasma testosterone level is indicative of hyperandrogenism.
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