Breast cancer-estrogens relationship
Angelescu, N.
Chirurgia 96(4): 335-339
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 1221-9118 PMID: 12731198 Document Number: 534940
Variations of estrogen (produced mostly in the ovaries) are under enzymatic influence of aromatases, acting also as oncogenes through the cytochrome CYP17 and CYP19. Their degradation trough methoxylation, resulting in both carcinogenetic and protector compounds, is influenced by 2, 4 and 16 +/- hydrolases. Tissue sensibility to oestrogen depends on the amount of receptors and the plasma level of oestrogen. They are regulating cell's growth and differentiation, depending on subject's age. Paraclinic markers such as the amount of regulating receptors, plasma oestrogen level, breast density and bone density are elements in evaluating breast cancer risk. Among the risk factors of occurrence and development of breast cancer were cited also early menarche, late term pregnancy, late menopause, postmenopausal obesity, smoking and the diet rich in fats and fatty acids, alcohol and antioxidant vitamins.