Effects of 4-Hydroxyandrostenedione on Oestrogens in Breast Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): D.C. Johannessen, H. Adlercreutz, T. Fotsis, P.E. L0nning
Primary Institution: University Hospital of Bergen, Norway; University of Helsinki, Finland
Hypothesis
Are there alternative sources of oestrogens in breast cancer patients treated with 4-hydroxyandrostenedione?
Conclusion
4-Hydroxyandrostenedione suppresses plasma and urinary oestrogens in breast cancer patients, but alternative oestrogen sources may still exist.
Supporting Evidence
- Plasma levels of oestrone, oestradiol, and oestrone sulphate were suppressed by 66.6%, 57.7%, and 51.8% respectively.
- Urinary excretion of total oestrogens was suppressed by a mean value of 66%.
- All urinary metabolites except for 2-OHOe2 and 4-OHOe1 were significantly suppressed.
Takeaway
This study looked at how a drug called 4-hydroxyandrostenedione affects hormone levels in breast cancer patients. It found that while the drug lowers hormone levels, some hormones still remain in the body.
Methodology
Plasma and urinary oestrogens were measured in breast cancer patients before and during treatment with 4-hydroxyandrostenedione using GC-MS and RIA methods.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and did not explore all potential sources of oestrogens.
Participant Demographics
Eight postmenopausal women and one man, mean age 72 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.005 for plasma oestrogens, p<0.025 for urinary oestrogens
Statistical Significance
p<0.005
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