The discriminant-function test: a marker of Th1/Th2 cell cytokine secretion and breast tumour oestrogen synthesis

Thirty years ago, the discriminant-function test (the ratio of urinary androgen : glucocorticoids) was developed as a marker for women who subsequently developed breast cancer. At that time, it was not clear why this test had a predictive value, but recent research has suggested that androgens and glucocorticoids may have a crucial role in regulating cytokine production by Th1/Th2 cells. Decreased production of the adrenal androgen dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulphate is associated with the production of Th2-type cytokines, some of which have been shown to stimulate markedly the activities of the enzymes that are involved in oestrogen synthesis in breast-cancer cells.