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Cognitive changes associated with endocrine therapy for breast cancer
Kunal Agrawal1, Susan Onami, Joanne E Mortimer
1Division of Genitourinary Malignancies, Department of Medical Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
Maturitas
|August 7, 2010
Summary
Endocrine therapy for breast cancer can cause side effects, including cognitive changes. This review examines the impact of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) on breast cancer patient cognition.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Endocrine therapy significantly improves breast cancer outcomes but presents various side effects.
- Cognitive changes associated with endocrine therapy are not well-characterized.
- Understanding these toxicities is crucial for clinical decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing data on cognitive changes linked to endocrine therapies for breast cancer.
- To specifically examine the effects of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) on cognition.
Main Methods:
- Review of data from key clinical trials, including MORE, STAR, NSABP P-1, ATAC, TEAM, and BIG 1-98.
- Analysis of substudies focusing on cognitive effects of SERMs (tamoxifen, raloxifene) and AIs (anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane).
- Comparative examination of cognitive effects between AIs and tamoxifen.
Main Results:
- Data from trials like MORE, STAR, and NSABP P-1 provide insights into SERM-related cognitive effects.
- Substudies of ATAC, TEAM, and BIG 1-98 trials compare cognitive effects of AIs versus tamoxifen.
- The review synthesizes findings to offer a comprehensive overview of endocrine therapy's impact on cognition.
Conclusions:
- Endocrine therapy for breast cancer is associated with a range of side effects, including potential cognitive changes.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and manage the cognitive impact of SERMs and AIs.
- This review consolidates current knowledge to guide clinical practice and future investigations.
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