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Estrogen metabolism in normal and neoplastic endometrium
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|December 1, 1977
Summary
Progestins, like medroxyprogesterone acetate, exhibit antiestrogenic effects by lowering estradiol receptors and increasing estradiol conversion in endometrial tissue. This suggests a potential biochemical test to predict patient response to progestin therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Progesterone and synthetic progestins demonstrate antiestrogenic properties in normal endometrium.
- These effects involve reducing estradiol receptors and increasing estradiol-17beta-dehydrogenase activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biochemical effects of progestins in postmenopausal patients with endometrial adenocarcinoma.
- To explore the potential of a short-term in vivo test to predict progestin therapy response.
Main Methods:
- Treatment of postmenopausal patients with endometrial adenocarcinoma using oral medroxyprogesterone acetate for 2-10 days.
- Biochemical analysis of endometrial tissue, including estradiol receptor levels and estradiol-17beta-dehydrogenase activity.
Main Results:
- Medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment induced similar antiestrogenic effects as observed in normal endometrium.
- Reduced estradiol receptor levels and increased estradiol-17beta-dehydrogenase activity were noted.
Conclusions:
- Short-term progestin administration can alter endometrial biochemical markers.
- A combined in vivo biochemical and histologic test may identify patients likely to benefit from progestin treatment for endometrial adenocarcinoma.