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Published on: October 16, 2010
Mammographic density increase in women receiving different hormone replacement regimens
C T Erel1, G Esen, H Seyisoglu
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cerrahpasa School of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey. tamererel@superonline.com
Maturitas
|November 22, 2001
Summary
Different hormone replacement therapy (HRT) regimens impact mammographic density differently. Continuous combination HRT showed a higher association with increased breast density compared to other HRT types.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used to manage menopausal symptoms.
- Mammographic density is a risk factor for breast cancer.
- The impact of various HRT regimens on mammographic density requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different hormone replacement therapy (HRT) regimens on mammographic density in postmenopausal women.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective comparative study included 95 postmenopausal women on various HRT regimens.
- Participants underwent high-resolution mammography at baseline and during a 4-year follow-up.
- Mammograms were assessed using the Wolfe classification.
Main Results:
- An increase in mammographic density was observed in 22% (Group I), 35% (Group II), 19% (Group III), and 8% (Group IV) of women.
- Group II (conjugated equine estrogens and continuous medroxyprogesterone acetate) showed a higher incidence of increased density.
- A statistically significant difference in density increase was found between Group II and Group IV (tibolone).
Conclusions:
- Different HRT regimens exert varying effects on breast parenchymal density.
- Continuous combination HRT (CEE + continuous MPA) is more frequently associated with increased mammographic density than other HRT types.
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