Recent Advances in Hormonal Therapy in Cancer

This issue contains articles from investigators in several countries reporting on the current status of hormonal therapy against cancer. Results of trials showing the therapeutic utility of high-dose megestrol acetate for patients with advanced breast cancer are presented. The investigations also focus on the potential of hormonal therapy in other clinical areas. A trial using megestrol acetate plus minidose diethylstilbestrol to treat metastatic prostate carcinoma is discussed. Interim results from a trial in breast cancer patients suggest a potential role for megestrol acetate as a modulator or inhibitor of drug resistance in certain tumours. Attempts to increase the inhibition of oestrogen stimulation with new agents like aromatase inhibitors or different mechanisms for lowering oestrogen concentration are also reported. Finally, data on the use of megestrol acetate as treatment for malnutrition and weight loss in cachectic patients with AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) or cancer are presented. Cumulatively, these reports update the clinician on the current therapeutic benefit of hormonal manipulation and detail intriguing areas for future research.