A randomized trial of aminoglutethimide +/- estrogen before chemotherapy in advanced breast cancer

Recent reports have suggested that the sensitivity to chemotherapy of endocrine-dependent breast cancer may be enhanced by transient exposure to hormonal stimulation. To test this concept, 39 postmenopausal women with proven metastatic breast carcinoma and measurable disease were entered into this prospective, double-blind trial; 35 are currently evaluable. All patients were continuously treated with aminoglutethimide and hydrocortisone to lower estrogen production, plus cyclic chemotherapy. Patients in the "stimulation" arm received in addition, Estrace 2 mg b.i.d. sublingually for 3 days before and on the day of chemotherapy. Estrace administration appeared to accelerate tumor growth as demonstrated by increased bone pain, hypercalcemia, and growth of skin lesions. Response rates, response duration, and survival were similar in the stimulation and control groups.