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[Hormonal therapy in oncologic treatment: pathogenic hypotheses and interactions between thyroid and breast
D Parmeggiani1, F A Malinconico, G Moccia
1Department of Anesthesiological, Surgical and Emergency Science, X Clinica Chirurgica e Fisiopatologia Oncologica, Second University of Naples.
Tumori
|August 9, 2003
Summary
This study explored the link between breast and thyroid conditions, finding hormonal imbalances in patients with co-occurring pathologies. Further research is needed to understand these complex interactions before initiating hormonal therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Investigated correlations between breast and thyroid pathologies.
- Included four patient groups: malignant-malignant, breast carcinoma with thyroid alterations, thyroid carcinoma with breast alterations, and benign-benign associations.
- Excluded menopausal patients, focusing on 120 women with regular menstrual cycles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore potential correlations between breast and thyroid diseases.
- To investigate hormonal profiles in patients with co-occurring breast and thyroid conditions.
- To inform future approaches for managing these associated pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Selected 120 premenopausal women with regular cycles.
- Performed breast and thyroid echography, and hormonal level determinations during the early follicular phase.
- Compared findings to a control group of 25 age-matched healthy women.
Main Results:
- Subclinical hypothyroidism with elevated TSH antibodies observed in one group.
- Hyperthyroidism with suppressed TSH noted in another.
- Elevated prolactin (PRL) levels in a third group.
- Increased estrogen levels found in the fourth group, particularly in those with benign conditions.
Conclusions:
- The complex and not fully understood interactions between breast and thyroid pathologies raise questions about the safety of hormonal therapy, especially for benign conditions.
- Highlights the need for further research into the endocrine interplay between breast and thyroid health.