Masculinizing Influence of Cystic Ovaries in Female Guinea Pigs

Abstract

DURING the past few years, about a hundred guinea pigs have been ovariectomized in connexion with a series of experiments on the hormonal control of reproduction. A number of animals had cystic degeneration of both ovaries, and it was noticed that these particular guinea pigs were physically very similar to the male of the species. On the basis of this observation, it was afterwards possible to predict a cystic condition of the ovaries from the external appearance of the animals—in fact, the attendant responsible for their welfare could, latterly, confidently prophesy the operation findings. The pathognomic feature was the altered thoracic contour, particularly the greater anteroposterior diameter, resulting in a postural change in virtue of which these females resembled the male. There was, in addition, hypertrophy of the clitoris, and their weight exceeded that of the average female.