[Resorption of progesterone through the intact skin of the breast in comparison with other body regions].

In healthy female volunteers the percutaneous absorption of progesterone from an ointment is studied comparing the absorption in the breast skin and that of other regions (thigh, abdomen). Before and certain times after the application progesterone serum levels are measured. A significant increase of mean serum levels (1 to 1.9 ng/ml) ist observed after application to the breast, while it is missing after application to other sites. Individual values of progesterone levels show a distinct peak after 30-120 min following application to the breast, while it lacks in three cases following other application. Serum peaks do not depend on the skin thickness as determined by ultrasound measurement. Percutaneous treatment with progesterone obviously is easier to perform using the breast skin than that of other regions.