Premature death with bladder outlet obstruction and hyperprolactinemia in new zealand black × new zealand white mice treated with ethinyl estradiol and 17 beta—estradiol

Objective. To determine causes of death, estrogen toxicity, and hyperprolactinemia in a murine model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods. Female New Zealand Black × New Zealand White (NZB × NZW) mice were implanted with ethinyl estradiol, 17 beta—estradiol, or empty capsules (controls). Results. Estrogen-treated mice developed striking hyperprolactinemia and died prematurely with genitourinary complications. Conclusion. Implanted estrogens, including 17 beta—estradiol in a dose reported previously to stimulate SLE, contribute to premature death in NZB × NZW mice, through toxic effects. Estrogen therapy increases the level of prolactin, an immunostimulatory hormone.