NOCTURNAL HORMONAL PROFILES IN MASSIVE OBESITY, ANOREXIA-NERVOSA AND NORMAL FEMALES

The nocturnal hormonal profile of growth hormone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone [FSH], cortisol, insulin and thyroid stimulating hormone in groups of massively obese, anorectic and normal female subjects [Ss] were compared. Chronic and stable weight disorder is associated with marked alterations in all hormone systems examined. By comparison with the control group, growth hormone and luteinizing hormone levels were lower in both the obese and anorexic Ss and insulin levels were elevated. Prolactin levels were lower in the anorexic Ss and elevated in the obese. Levels of FSH were normal in the obese SS and lower in the anorexic. Cortisol levels were elevated in the anorexic and normal in the obese.