Effect of Anti-Cancer Chemotherapy on the Circulating Levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Luteinizing Hormone and Prolactin in Postoperative Premenopausal

Abstract

The levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin (PRL) were determined in postoperative premenopausal breast cancer patients. In the patients which received CMF-therapy there was a marked increase in the circulating FSH and LH levels following the initiation of chemotherapy, while in controls the hormone levels remained considerably lower. In contrast, the levels of prolactin decreased appreciably following administration of anticancer drugs to breast cancer patients. A positive correlation was found in these hormonal changes and the regression of tumor size following chemotherapy. The hormone levels in the serum of breast cancer patients can, therefore, serve as clinical tools in monitoring the disease and response to drug treatment.