Megestrol acetate in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer

Abstract

There are many non-elucidated questions concerning cancer, especially of the breast, in which hormones are involved. The scope of this particular study is to bring more clarity on the role of the progestin megestrol acetate in the hormonal treatment of breast cancer. It should be kept in mind that this is a clinical study. Biochemical details mentioned in Chapter I serve primarily as a background for a better understanding of clinical effects. The study was done from 1974-1983 and 5 questions have provided the frame for this thesis: l. How effective is megestrol acetate in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer? (Chapter II) 2. What is the role of steroid receptors in the mechanism of action of megestrol acetate in inducing tumor regression? (Chapter III + IV) 3. Has the effect of megestrol acetate on some endocrine parameters any relation to tumor regression? What is the optimal dose? (Chapter V) 4. In what sequence of hormonal treatment should megestrol acetate be used? Is there a difference with regard to the age and/or menopausal state of the patient? (Chapter VI) S. Does the combination of megestrol acetate and tamoxifen have any additional effect on endocrine events; especially can megestrol acetate-induced hyperprolactinaemia be suppressed by the administration of tamoxifen? (Chapter VII) These questions are considered in the general discussion and summar