Research Progress in the Role of Tamoxifen in Nervous System and Cognitive Function / 中国医学科学院学报

Neurological diseases include a variety of neurodegenerative diseases and other brain damage diseases.The treatment schemes for neurological diseases are still in research.The existing clinical and basic studies have confirmed that traditional estrogen therapy has certain protective effect on the nervous system,while it increases the risk of breast or endometrial cancer.The emergence of the selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) can avoid the above mentioned problems.The available studies have confirmed the protective effect of tamoxifen as a SERM on the nervous system.This paper reviews the role and functioning mechanisms of tamoxifen in the nervous system and cognitive function,aiming to provide guidance for the future application of tamoxifen in the treatment of neurological diseases and the improvement of cognitive function.

Adesão à Terapia Hormonal Adjuvante com Tamoxifeno e Anastrozol utilizando ARMS-12 e MMAS-4 / Adherence to Adjuvant Hormone Therapy with Tamoxifen and Anastrozole using ARMS-12 and MMAS-4 / Adherencia a la Terapia Hormonal Adyuvante con Tamoxifeno y Anastrozol utilizando ARMS-12 y MMAS-4

Introdução: Entre os cânceres de mama, aproximadamente 75% das mulheres são receptores hormonais positivos, sendo estas mais propensas a responderem à hormonioterapia com anastrozol e tamoxifeno. Apesar de eficazes, apresentam taxas significativas de não adesão. Objetivo: Avaliar a adesão à terapia hormonal adjuvante com tamoxifeno e anastrozol em pacientes atendidos nos Ambulatórios da Mastologia e de Quimioterapia do Hospital São Paulo entre os anos de 2019 e 2020. Método: Estudo transversal com 102 mulheres, realizado entre os meses de setembro de 2019 e março de 2020. A adesão à terapia hormonal adjuvante foi avaliada utilizando-se as escalas Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4) e Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale of 12 items (ARMS-12). Resultados: A média de idade foi de 61,5 anos (59,3-63,6). Entre as pacientes, 27,7% faziam uso de tamoxifeno e 72,3% de anastrozol. Relataram desconforto em relação ao uso do medicamento 84,4%, sendo as ondas de calor (42,2%) e as dores articulares (55,9%) os mais frequentes. A escala de ARMS>12 foi pontuada por 79,2%; cerca de 90% das mulheres pontuaram a MMAS-4 até dois pontos, porém não houve diferença significativa entre os tipos de hormônios utilizados para escalas de adesão (p=0,815 e p=0,489). Conclusão: A adesão à hormonioterapia observada foi relativamente baixa, independentemente da endocrinoterapia, podendo essas pacientes estarem em risco de inadequação quanto à resposta clínica

Introduction: Among breast cancers, approximately 75% of women are hormone receptors-positive, and these are more likely to respond to hormone therapy with anastrozole and tamoxifen. Although effective, they have significant rates of non-adherence. Objective: To evaluate adherence to adjuvant hormone therapy with tamoxifen and anastrozole in patients consulted at the Mastology and Chemotherapy Outpatient Clinic of Hospital São Paulo between 2019 and 2020. Method: Cross-sectional study carried out with 102 women between September 2019 and March 2020. Adherence to hormone therapy was evaluated using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4) and Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale of 12 items (ARMS-12). Results: The mean age was 61.5 years (59.3-63.6). Among the patients, 27.7% used tamoxifen and 72.3%, anastrozole. 84.4% of them reported discomfort in using the medication, the most frequent were hot flashes (42.2%) and joint pain (55.9%). 79.2% scored the ARMS>12 scale, about 90% of the women scored MMAS-4 up to 2 points, but there was no significant difference between the types of hormones used for adhesion scales (p=0.815 to p=0.489). Conclusion: Adherence to hormone therapy was relatively low, regardless of the hormone used, and these patients may be at risk of inadequate clinical response

Introducción: Entre los cánceres de mama, aproximadamente el 75% de las mujeres son receptores hormonales positivos, y estas son más propensas a responder a la terapia hormonal con anastrozol y tamoxifeno. Aunque son eficaces, tienen tasas significativas de no adherencia. Objetivo: Evaluar la adhesión a la terapia hormonal adyuvante con tamoxifeno y anastrozol en pacientes atendidas en las Clínicas Ambulatorias de Mastología y Quimioterapia del Hospital São Paulo entre 2019 y 2020. Método: Este es un estudio transversal realizado con 102 mujeres entre septiembre de 2019 y marzo de 2020. La terapia hormonal adjunta se evaluó utilizando las escalas Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4) e Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale of 12 items (ARMS-12). Resultados: La edad media fue de 61,5 años (59,3-63,6). Entre las pacientes, el 27,7% utilizaron tamoxifeno y el 72,3% anastrozol. El 84,4% de ellas reportaron molestias en relación con el uso del medicamento, siendo los más frecuentes los sofocos (42,2%) y el dolor articular (55,9%). 79,2% puntuaron la escala ARMS>12, alrededor del 90% de las mujeres obtuvieron MMAS-4 hasta dos puntos, pero no hubo diferencia significativa entre los tipos de hormonas utilizadas para escalas de adhesión (p=0,815 a p=0,489). Conclusión: La adherencia de la terapia hormonal observada fue relativamente baja, independientemente de la hormona utilizada, y estas mujeres pueden estar en riesgo de respuesta clínica inadecuada

Switching of hormone therapies in breast cancer women / Avaliação da mudança do esquema hormonioterápico em mulheres com câncer de mama

Abstract Objective The objective of the present study was to analyze the reasons that led to hormone therapies (HTs) regimen changes in women with breast cancer. Methods This was a retrospective cross-sectional study from a single-institution Brazilian cancer center with patient records diagnosed with breast cancer between January 2012 and January 2017. Results From 1,555 women who were in treatment with HT, 213 (13.7%) women had HT switched, either tamoxifen to anastrozole or vice-versa. Most women included in the present study who switched HT were > 50 years old, postmenopausal, Caucasian, and had at least one comorbidity. From the group with therapy change, 'disease progression' was reason of change in 124 (58.2%) cases, and in 65 (30.5%) patients, 'presence of side effects' was the reason. From those women who suffered with side effects, 24 (36.9%) had comorbidities. Conclusion The present study demonstrated a low rate of HT switch of tamoxifen to anastrozole. Among the reasons for changing therapy, the most common was disease progression, which includes cancer recurrence, metastasis or increased tumor. Side effects were second; furthermore, age and comorbidities are risk factors for side effects.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os motivos que levaram às mudanças no esquema hormonioterápico (HT) em mulheres com câncer de mama. Métodos Estudo transversal retrospectivo realizado no Hospital da Mulher de Campinas e consequente pesquisa de prontuários de mulheres diagnosticados com câncer de mama entre janeiro de 2012 e janeiro de 2017. Resultados De 1.555 mulheres em tratamento com HT, 213 (13,7%) mulheres tiveram HT alterado, tamoxifeno para anastrozol ou vice-versa. A maioria das mulheres incluídas no presente estudo que tiveram mudança de HT tinha > 50 anos, estava na pós-menopausa, era caucasiana e tinha pelo menos uma comorbidade. Os principais motivos de troca de HT foram devido a 'progressão da doença', ocorrendo em 124 (58,2%) casos e a 'presença de efeitos colaterais' (n = 65; 30,5%). Das mulheres que sofreram efeitos colaterais, 24 (36,9%) apresentaram comorbidades. Conclusão O presente estudo demonstrou uma baixa taxa na alteração de tamoxifeno para anastrozol. Entre as razõesmais comuns para alterar a HT estava a progressão da doença, que inclui recorrência do câncer, metástase ou aumento do tumor. Os efeitos colaterais foram a segunda causa e, além disso, a idade e as comorbidades foram fatores de risco para efeitos colaterais.

Pubertad precoz periférica / Peripheral precocious puberty

Introducción: El síndrome de Mc Cune-Albright (SMA) es una rara entidad asociada con la displasia fibrosa poliostótica, con la presencia de manchas de color café con leche y también con la hiperfunción endocrina. La alteración hormonal más frecuente es la pubertad precoz. El SMA se debe a mutaciones activadoras del gen GNAS1. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas de una paciente con síndrome de Mc Cune-Albright con una pubertad precoz. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión de la historia clínica como fuente primaria y fueron incorporados todos los elementos clínicos, bioquímicos, imagenológicos y genéticos que conformaron la valoración integral de la paciente. Presentación de caso: Se presenta un caso poco frecuente de síndrome de Mc Cune-Albright en una niña de siete años de edad con mamas Tanner II-III, sangrado vaginal, vello axilar y pubiano escaso, manchas café con leche y lesiones óseas. Lleva tratamiento con tamoxifeno, lo que ha logrado mantener frenada la progresión del desarrollo puberal. Conclusiones: Aunque esta entidad es de carácter benigno y la prevalencia es extremadamente baja, el inicio puberal precoz y el compromiso de la talla final pueden producir impacto psicológico en la calidad de vida y en el desarrollo normal del individuo(AU)

Introduction: Mc Cune-Albright syndrome (SMA, by its acronym in Spanish) is a rare entity associated with polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, with the presence of brown spots with milk and also with endocrine hyperfunction. The most common hormonal alteration is precocious puberty. SMA is caused by GNAS1 gene´s activator mutations. Objective: Describe the clinical characteristics of a patient with Mc Cune-Albright syndrome with precocious puberty. Methods: A review of the medical history was carried out as a primary source and all the clinical, biochemical, imaging and genetic elements that made up the comprehensive assessment of the patient were incorporated. Case presentation: A rare case of Mc Cune-Albright syndrome occurs in a seven-year-old girl with Tanner II-III breasts, vaginal bleeding, axillary and pubic hair, brown spots with milk and bone lesions. She is treated with tamoxifen, which has managed to keep the progression of pubertal development slow. Conclusions: Although this entity is benign in nature and the prevalence is extremely low, early pubertal onset and the compromise of the final size can have a psychological impact on the quality of life and normal development of the individual(AU)

Nuevos avances en el conocimiento de la historia natural de la displasia fibrosa / News advances in the knowledge of natural history of the fibrous dysplasia

La displasia fibrosa (DF) es una enfermedad infrecuente del hueso, no hereditaria, producida por una mutación activadora del gen GNAS, responsable de codificar la unidad a-estimuladora de la proteína G (Gsa). La presentación clínica de la enfermedad es muy variada, pues adopta desde formas asintomáticas hasta otras marcadamente sintomáticas. En los últimos años, el análisis exhaustivo de bases de datos de pacientes con DF ha permitido conocer más sobre su historia natural. En este artículo se revisa la información actualmente disponible sobre algunos aspectos que ayudarán al mejor enfoque clínico del paciente, como son: la utilidad clínica de los marcadores óseos, los factores pronósticos para el desarrollo de fracturas, la DF como condición predisponente para el desarrollo de tumores específicos, nuevas perspectivas sobre la fisiopatología del dolor óseo y nuevas estrategias terapéuticas. Un mayor conocimiento sobre la historia natural de esta enfermedad finalmente redundará en la mejor calidad de vida de los pacientes con DF. (AU)

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is an infrequent, non-hereditary bone disease caused by a somatic mutation of the GNAS gene, responsible for encoding the a-subunit of the G-protein (Gsa). The clinical presentation of the disease varies greatly, with some patients being asymptomatic and others markedly symptomatic. The exhaustive analysis of the database from patients with FD has allowed to learn more about the natural history of this disease. This article reviews the current information available on the clinical utility of bone markers, the prognostic factors for the occurrence of fractures, the evidence supporting as a predisposing condition for the development of specific tumors, new perspectives on the pathophysiology of bone pain, and emerging therapeutic strategies. A greater understanding of the natural history of this disease will allow to make better medical decisions, which will ultimately contribute to improve FD patients' quality of life. (AU)

Impacts of cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) genetic polymorphism in tamoxifen therapy for breast cancer impactos do polimorfismo genético do citocromo P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) na terapia com tamoxifeno para câncer de mama

Abstract Tamoxifen (TMX) is the main drug used both in pre and postmenopausal women as adjuvant treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. An important barrier to the use of TMXis the development ofdrug resistance causedby molecular processes related to genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, such as the actions of cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) polymorphisms and of its metabolites. The present study aimed to review recent findings related to the impact of CYP2D6 polymorphisms and how they can affect the results of TMX in breast cancer treatment. The keywords CYP2D6, tamoxifen, and breast cancer were searched in the PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, Scielo, and Bireme databases. Studies related to other types of neoplasms or based on other isoenzymes from cytochrome P450, but not on CYP2D6, were excluded. The impact of CYP2D6 polymorphisms in the TMX resistance mechanism remains unclear. The CYP2D6 gene seems to contribute to decreasing the efficacy of TMX, while the main mechanism responsible for therapy failure, morbidity, and mortality is the progression of the disease.

Resumo Otamoxifeno é a principal drogaque pode ser utilizada comotratamentohormonal adjuvante empacientesportadoras de câncer demamareceptor hormonal positivotanto na pré- quanto na pós-menopausa.Umadasmaiores barreirasemseu uso é o desenvolvimento de resistência medicamentosa causada por meio de processos moleculares relacionados a mecanismos genéticos e epigenéticos, como a ação dos polimorfismos do gene citocromo P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) e seus metabólitos.Opresente estudo busca revisar as descobertas recentes acerca dos impactos dos polimorfismos do gene CYP2D6 e de como eles podem afetar os resultados do tamoxifeno na terapêutica do câncer de mama. As palavras-chave CYP2D6, tamoxifeno e câncer de mama foram buscadas nas bases de dados Pubmed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, Scielo e Bireme. Estudos relacionados com outros tipos de câncer ou relacionados a outras isoenzimas do citocromo P450 que não o CYP2D6 foram excluídos. O impacto do polimorfismo do CYP2D6 nos mecanismos de resistência ao tamoxifeno permanecem controversos. O gene CYP2D6 parece reduzir a eficácia do TMX; entretanto, os principais fatores associados a falha terapêutica são morbimortalidade e a progressão da doença

Manejo diagnóstico-terapéutico de las lesiones mamarias atípicas / Diagnostic-therapeutic Management of Atypical Breast Lesions

Las lesiones mamarias se dividen histológicamente en dos grandes grupos, malignas y benignas. Las lesiones malignas pueden ser de origen ductal o lobulillar, siendo el carcinoma ductal infiltrante la neoplasia invasiva más frecuente. Las lesiones benignas se clasifican en no proliferativas, proliferativas sin atipias y proliferativas con atipias. Dentro de los dos últimos grupos se encuentran entidades que conllevan un alto riesgo de desarrollar carcinoma de mama, como pueden ser la hiperplasia ductal atípica, la cicatriz radial o la neoplasia lobular. Revisamos en qué consisten dichas entidades y cuáles son sus características principales en imagen, fundamentalmente en mamografía y ecografía. Si tras realizar una biopsia se obtiene uno de esos diagnósticos histológicos, es importante analizar las características imagenológicas y el tipo de procedimiento realizado (número de cilindros obtenidos, calibre de aguja...), para realizar un adecuado manejo posterior. En algunos casos la actitud a seguir será la extirpación quirúrgica completa de la lesión, mientras que en otros se podrá realizar una extirpación percutánea (mediante biopsia con aguja de vacio), o incluso seguimiento estricto por imagen. Mediante diferentes casos mostraremos nuestra experiencia y analizaremos la literatura vigente para recordar esas entidades y llegar a un consenso adecuado sobre el manejo de las mismas.

Breast lesions are divided histologically into two large groups, malignant and benign. Malignant lesions may be of ductal or lobular origin, with infiltrating ductal carcinoma being the most frequent invasive neoplasm. Benign breast lesions are classified as proliferative, proliferative without atypia and proliferative with atypia. Within the last two classifications are entities that carry a high risk of developing breast carcinoma, such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, radial scar or lobular neoplasia. We review what these entities consist of and what are their fundamental characteristics in image, fundamentally in mammography and ultrasound. When we perform one of these histological diagnoses after a biopsy, it is important to analyze the radiological characteristics and the type of procedure performed (number of cylinders, needle gauge ...) to perform an appropriate posterior management. In some cases the attitude to be followed will be the complete surgical removal of the lesion, while in others a percutaneous excision (through vacuum needle biopsy) or even strict image follow-up may be performed. Through different cases we will show our experience and analyze current literature to remember these entities and reach an adequate management consensus.

Tumor desmoide abdominal / Abdominal desmoid tumor

Los tumores desmoides son infrecuentes, presentan crecimiento localmente agresivo, no suelen dar metástasis pero con frecuencia desarrollan un crecimiento infiltrante que amenaza la vida y puede conducir a una gran morbi-mortalidad. Representan el 0.03% de todos los tumores. En base a la experiencia, los expertos recomiendan la administración de dosis altas de tamoxifeno y sulindac como tratamiento primario para los pacientes con tumores desmoides asociados a poliposis adenomatosa familiar (PAF). Sin embargo, el mejor enfoque después de la intervención quirúrgica para pacientes con tumores desmoides esporádicos, aún no se ha determinado (AU)

Desmoid tumors are infrequent, locally aggressive growth, do not usually metastasize but often develop an infiltrating growth that threatens life and can lead to great morbidity and mortality. They represent 0.03% of all tumors. Based on experience, experts recommend the administration of high doses of tamoxifen and sulindac as a primary treatment for patients with desmoid tumors associated with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). However, the best approach after surgical intervention for patients with sporadic desmoid tumors has yet to be determined (AU)

Use of anastrozole in the chemoprevention and treatment of breast cancer: A literature review / Uso do anastrozol na quimioprevenção e no tratamento do câncer de mama: uma revisão da literatura

Summary Aromatase inhibitors have emerged as an alternative endocrine therapy for the treatment of hormone sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. The use of third-generation inhibitors represented by exemestane, letrozol and anastrozole is currently indicated. Anastrozole is a nonsteroidal compound and a potent selective inhibitor of the aromatase enzyme. Although a few studies have shown that its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties may be affected by interindividual variability, this drug has been recently used in all configurations of breast cancer treatment. In metastatic disease, it is currently considered the first-line treatment for postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive breast tumors. Anastrozole has shown promising results in the adjuvant treatment of early-stage breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It has also achieved interesting results in the chemoprevention of the disease. Therefore, due to the importance of anastrozole both for endocrine treatment and chemoprevention of hormone-sensitive breast cancer in postmenopausal women, we proposed the current literature review in the SciELO and PubMed database of articles published in the last 10 years.

Resumo Os inibidores de aromatase têm emergido como uma endocrinoterapia alternativa para o tratamento de câncer de mama sensível a hormônios em mulheres pós-menopáusicas. A utilização de inibidores de terceira geração, representados por exemestano, letrozol e anastrozol, é atualmente indicada. Anastrozol é um composto não esteroide e um inibidor potente e seletivo da enzima aromatase. Embora alguns estudos tenham demonstrado que as suas propriedades farmacodinâmicas e farmacocinéticas podem ser afetadas pela variabilidade interindividual, esse fármaco tem sido recentemente utilizado em todas as configurações de tratamento do câncer de mama. Na doença metastática, é atualmente considerado o tratamento de primeira linha em mulheres pós-menopáusicas com tumores de mama e receptor de estrogênio positivo. O anastrozol tem mostrado resultados promissores no tratamento adjuvante do câncer de mama em estágio inicial em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Ele também conseguiu resultados interessantes na quimioprevenção da doença. Portanto, em virtude da importância do anastrozol tanto no tratamento endócrino quanto na quimioprevenção do câncer de mama hormoniossensível em mulheres na pós-menopausa, propusemos a atual revisão da literatura na base de dados SciELO e PubMed de artigos publicados nos últimos 10 anos.

Ginecomastia / Gynecomastia

O objetivo deste trabalho foi observar na literatura dados referentes à etiologia da ginecomastia, seu diagnóstico e aspectos radiológicos. A metodologia adotada foi a pesquisa bibliográfica sistematizada para a produção de um artigo de revisão, de modo a responder ao objetivo proposto. A ginecomastia pode ser dividida em fisiológica (neonatal, puberal e senil) e patológica (resultante da diminuição da ação da testosterona, ou do aumento da ação estrogênica, por mecanismo de indução por drogas, idiopática ou secundária a outras causas). O diagnóstico deve ser realizado através do exame físico, investigação endócrina e exames radiológicos, como a mamografia e a ultrassonografia. O tratamento está baseado na orientação, medicamentos e, em último caso, cirúrgico.(AU)

The objective of this study was to observe data in the literature regarding the etiology, diagnosis and radiological aspects of gynecomastia. The methodology included a systematic literature search to produce a review article in order to meet the objective. Gynecomastia can be divided into physiologic (neonatal, pubertal and senile) and pathological (due to decreased action of testosterone, increased estrogen action, drug?induced, idiopathic or due to other causes). The diagnosis could be made by physical examination, endocrine and radiological investigation, as mammography and ultrasound. The treatment is based on the guidance, medication and, ultimately, surgery.(AU)

Determination of CYP2D6 *3, *4, and *10 frequency in women with breast cancer in São Luís, Brazil, and its association with prognostic factors and disease-free survival

The CYP2D6 enzyme is crucial for the metabolism of tamoxifen. The CYP2D6 gene is highly polymorphic, and individuals can be extensive, intermediate, or poor tamoxifen metabolizers. The aim of this study was to determine the frequencies of the CYP2D6 *3, *4, and *10 alleles in women with breast cancer who were treated with tamoxifen and analyze the association of enzyme activity with prognostic factors and disease-free survival. We observed a high frequency of CYP2D6 *10, with an allelic frequency of 0.14 (14.4%). The *3 allele was not present in the studied population, and *4 had an allelic frequency of 0.13 (13.8%). We conclude that patients with reduced CYP2D6 activity did not present worse tumor characteristics or decreased disease-free survival than women with normal enzyme activity, as the difference was not statistically significant. We also observed a high frequency of CYP2D6 *10, which had not been previously described in this specific population. This study is the first in north-northeastern Brazil that aimed to contribute to the knowledge of the Brazilian regional profile for CYP2D6 polymorphisms and their phenotypes. These findings add to the knowledge of the distribution of different polymorphic CYP2D6 alleles and the potential role of CYP2D6 genotyping in clinical practice prior to choosing therapeutic protocols.

Avaliação endometrial em pacientes usuárias de tamoxifeno / Endometrial assessment in patients taking tamoxifen

O câncer de mama é a neoplasia maligna mais frequente em mulheres tanto no Brasil quanto no mundo. A doença é mais comum acima dos 50 anos, coincidindo com a faixa etária de risco para o câncer de endométrio. O tamoxifeno é um modulador seletivo de receptor de estrogênio (SERMs), usadona terapêutica das mulheres portadoras de câncer de mama. Assim como os outros SERMs (raloxifeno,toremifeno,arzoxifeno e lasoxifeno), o tamoxifeno pode atuar como antagonista ou agonista, dependendo do tecido-alvo.Nestas pacientes, o uso destes agonistas seletivos embora apresente maior benefício do que risco para o tratamento do câncer de mama, pode causar efeitos secundários no endométrio, com aumento do risco para doenças malignas. Consensos atuais, porém, não demonstram benefício de nenhum método de rastreio para câncer endometrial de rotina. O que se recomenda, nas pacientes na pré e pós-menopausa com câncer de mama, é o exame ginecológico com intervalo anual e o prosseguimento com propedêutica, através de biópsia do endométrio nas pacientes pós-menopausa que apresentam sangramento vaginal.(AU)

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women both in Brazil and in the world. The disease is more common over 50 years, coinciding with the age of risk for endometrial cancer. Tamoxifen is a selective modulator of estrogen receptor (SERMs) used in the treatment of women with breast cancer. Like other SERMs (raloxifene, toremifene, arzoxifeno and lasoxifeno), tamoxifen may act as antagonist or agonist depending on the target tissue. In these patients, although showing greater benefit of what risk for the treatment of the breast cancer, can cause side effects on the endometrium, with increased risk for malignant diseases. Current consensus, however, do not demonstrate any benefit from routine screening method for endometrial cancer. Women with breast cancer should undergo annual gynecologic examinations for premenopausal and postmenopausal patients and further workup by means of biopsy in patients with postmenopausal vaginal bleeding.(AU)

Tamoxifen decreases the myofibroblast count in the healing bile duct tissue of pigs

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oral tamoxifen treatment on the number of myofibroblasts present during the healing process after experimental bile duct injury. METHODS: The sample consisted of 16 pigs that were divided into two groups (the control and study groups). Incisions and suturing of the bile ducts were performed in the two groups. Tamoxifen (20 mg/day) was administered only to the study group. The animals were sacrificed after 30 days. Quantification of myofibroblasts in the biliary ducts was made through immunohistochemistry analysis using anti-alpha smooth muscle actin of the smooth muscle antibody. Immunohistochemical quantification was performed using a digital image system. RESULTS: In the animals treated with tamoxifen (20 mg/day), there was a significant reduction in immunostaining for alpha smooth muscle actin compared with the control group (0.1155 vs. 0.2021, p = 0.046). CONCLUSION: Tamoxifen reduced the expression of alpha smooth muscle actin in the healing tissue after bile duct injury, suggesting a decrease in myofibroblasts in the scarred area of the pig biliary tract. These data suggest that tamoxifen could be used in the prevention of biliary tract stenosis after bile duct surgeries.

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis: case series from a university center

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is an often-fatal complication of long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD). We here report the clinical features of EPS in Korean PD patients from a single university center. METHODS: The data were collected retrospectively from 606 PD patients at Kyungpook National University Hospital, between August 2001 and August 2011. The diagnosis of EPS was based on clinical signs and symptoms, and confirmed by radiological findings. RESULTS: Eight patients (1.3%, four males) were diagnosed with EPS. The mean age of the patients was 48.5 years (range, 33 to 65). The mean duration of PD was 111.8 months (range, 23 to 186). All patients except for one had three or more episodes of peritonitis. Seven patients were diagnosed with EPS after stopping PD, and only one stayed on PD after initial diagnosis and treatment. Total parenteral nutrition and corticosteroids, in addition to tamoxifen therapy, were used to treat most of the patients, and one patient underwent surgery (adhesiolysis). The overall mortality rate was 50%. CONCLUSIONS: EPS is a serious, life-threatening complication in patients on long-term PD. To reduce the incidence and mortality rate of EPS, careful monitoring and early diagnosis is needed.

Repercusión de la terapia endocrina del cáncer de mama sobre la masa ósea / Repercussions on bone mass of endocrine therapy for breast cancer

Los tratamientos endocrinos del cáncer de mama se asocian con diversas repercusiones sobre la masa ósea. El tamoxifeno se caracteriza por sus mínimos efectos deletéreos; para otras terapias, debería considerarse el uso de fármacos protectores, entre los que se destacan los bisfosfonatos

Estratégias de enfrentamento e relação com condições sociodemográficas de mulheres com câncer de mama / Coping strategies and the relationship with sociodemographic conditions of women with breast cancer

OBJETIVO: Examinar a relação entre as estratégias de enfrentamento adotadas por mulheres com câncer de mama em uso de tamoxifeno e as condições sociodemográficas. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, transversal, com abordagem quantitativa. Os dados foram obtidos em entrevista realizada com 270 mulheres, com diagnóstico de câncer de mama em uso de tamoxifeno, usuárias do ambulatório Ylza Bianco, pertencente ao Hospital Santa Rita de Cássia, no Município de Vitória/ES. A análise foi realizada por meio SPSS - Versão 13,0 - 2004. RESULTADOS: Mulheres não letradas enfrentam o problema priorizando a busca de práticas religiosas (p<0,05); e mulheres com maior escolaridade, pertencentes à classe econômica B, com renda familiar superior a três salários mínimos e que vivem em área urbana empregam mais a estratégia de enfrentamento com foco no problema (p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: A estratégia de enfrentamento adotada está associada a aspectos sociodemográficos.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship among the coping strategies adopted by women with breast cancer using tamoxifen and sociodemographic conditions. METHODS: A cross-sectional study, with a quantitative approach. Data were obtained in an interview conducted with 270 women, with a diagnosis of breast cancer using tamoxifen, users of the outpatient Ylza Bianco center, belonging to the Hospital Santa Rita de Cássia, in Vitória / ES (Brazil). The analysis was performed using SPSS - Version 13.0 - 2004. RESULTS: Illiterate women faced the problem by prioritizing the search for religious practices (p <0.05); and women with higher education, belonging to economic class B, with family income more than three times the minimum wage and who lived in urban areas employ more coping strategies that are focused on the problem (p <0.05). CONCLUSION: The coping strategy adopted is associated with sociodemographic characteristics.

OBJETIVO: Examinar la relación entre las estrategias de enfrentamiento adoptadas por mujeres con cáncer de mama que usan tamoxifeno y las condiciones sociodemográficas. MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, con abordaje cuantitativo. Los datos fueron obtenidos en entrevista realizada a 270 mujeres, con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama que usan tamoxifeno, usuarias del Consultorio Externo Ylza Bianco, perteneciente al Hospital Santa Rita de Cássia, en el Municipio de Vitória/ES. El análisis fue realizado por medio del SPSS - Versión 13,0 - 2004. RESULTADOS: Las mujeres no letradas enfrentan el problema priorizando la búsqueda de prácticas religiosas (p<0,05); y mujeres con mayor escolaridad, pertenecientes a la clase económica B, con ingreso familiar superior a tres salarios mínimos y que viven en área urbana emplean más la estrategia de enfrentamiento con foco en el problema (p<0,05). CONCLUSIÓN: La estrategia de enfrentamiento adoptada está asociada a aspectos sociodemográficos.

Metástasis óseas múltiples de cáncer de mama: papel del CA 15.3 y respuesta a la hormonoterapia / Bone metastasis of breast carcinoma: role of tumoral marker CA 15.3 and hormonal therapy response

Las metástasis óseas suponen el 65-75 por ciento de casos de cáncer de mama avanzado. Los marcadores tumorales (CA 15.3, CEA) son útiles en el seguimiento de las pacientes y en la valoración de la respuesta al tratamiento. En el cáncer de mama metastásico de bajo grado, el tratamiento hormonal es la opción terapéutica más acertada debido a la baja toxicidad y alta probabilidad de respuesta generalmente de larga duración a la que se asocia. Se presenta el caso de una paciente con cáncer de mama tratado con cirugía, quimioterapia y radioterapia, asintomática durante el seguimiento y en la que metástasis óseas múltiples son detectadas a partir de una elevación del marcador CA 15.3. La hormonoterapia es el tratamiento pautado inicialmente con buena respuesta y tolerancia. Dicho tratamiento logra estabilizar las lesiones óseas durante 7 años y es precisamente al suspenderlo cuando aparecen nuevas lesiones también a nivel óseo detectadas de nuevo ante un incremento del marcador CA 15.3. La terapia hormonal pautada de nuevo vuelve a conseguir estabilizar las lesiones.

Bone metastases are involved in a 65-75 percent of advanced metastatic breast cancer cases. Tumoral markers (CEA, CA 15.3) are useful in the follow-up and evaluation of response to treatment. Hormonal therapy is the optimal treatment option in low grade metastatic breast cancer due to low toxicity and general long term good response. We present a breast cancer case treated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The patient was asymptomatic during the follow-up and multiple bone metastases were diagnosed as a result of an increased CA 15.3 marker found. Hormone therapy was the recommended initial treatment with good response and tolerance. Bone lesions remained stabilized for 7 years but after treatment suspension new bone lesions appeared. CA 15.3 marker had increased again. Reintroduction of hormonal therapy achieved again the stabilization of the lesions.

Mastalgia cíclica: abordagem clínica / Cyclic mastalgia: clinical approach

A mastalgia é uma queixa comum nos consultórios de mastologia. Devido à intensidade da dorou pelo medo do câncer de mama, mulheres com mastalgia buscam orientação com o mastologista.Nesse sentido, o mastologista deve estar familiarizado com o tema. Considerando que aqueixa de dor mamária está entre as mais frequentes em mastologia, conduziu-se uma revisão daliteratura, enfatizando-se a abordagem terapêutica da mastalgia.

Mastalgia is a common complaint in mastology offices. Women who are experiencing mastalgia seekclarification with the breast cancer specialist due to the intensity of the pain or because they fear breastcancer. Therefore, the specialist shall understand such issue. Considering that the complaint concerningbreast pain is one of the most frequent complaints in mastology, a literature review was carried outemphasizing the therapeutic approach of mastalgia.