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Androgen conjugates in human breast cyst fluids
Journal of the National Cancer Institute
|November 1, 1982
Summary
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS) levels in breast cyst fluid are high and variable. These concentrations, measured in 100 breast cyst fluids, show significant differences between cysts in the same or different breasts.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS) is an important steroid hormone.
- Breast cysts are common benign breast conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure DHAS concentrations in breast cyst fluid.
- To investigate factors influencing DHAS levels in breast cysts.
Main Methods:
- Radioimmunoassay (RIA) was used to quantify DHAS levels.
- 100 breast cyst fluid samples from 82 women were analyzed.
Main Results:
- DHAS concentrations in breast cyst fluid ranged from 1.5 to 1,155 microM (median 140 microM).
- DHAS levels were higher than plasma but comparable to nipple aspirate secretions.
- Age, menopausal status, parity, and cyst volume did not significantly affect DHAS levels.
- Significant variability in DHAS levels was observed between multiple cysts within the same breast and between breasts.
Conclusions:
- DHAS is present at high concentrations in breast cyst fluid.
- The significant variability of DHAS levels complicates comparative studies.
- Further research is needed to understand the role of DHAS in breast cyst formation.