Cyclosporin A and multiple fibroadenomas of the breast

Br J Surg. 1996 Dec;83(12):1755-7. doi: 10.1002/bjs.1800831229.

Abstract

Multiple bilateral fibroadenomas are uncommon. This finding in four women who had received renal transplants prompted further inquiry. A prospective study was performed on 39 women under the age of 55 years who had received a renal transplant at least 1 year earlier. Clinical examination and breast ultrasonography were performed. Factors considered included immunosuppressive therapy, concurrent medication and renal function. Blood was taken for estimation of oestradiol, prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and sex hormone binding globulin levels. Fibroadenomas were found in 13 of 29 women who had received cyclosporin A: multiple in ten and bilateral in five. No abnormal breast findings were seen in 10 patients immunosuppressed with steroids and azathioprine alone (chi 2 = 7.30, 1 d.f., P < 0.01). Serum oestradiol concentration was raised in women with fibroadenomas compared with that in those with normal breasts (P < 0.05) and the level of FSH was lower (P < 0.01). Cyclosporin A may act on breast fibroblasts by humoral mechanisms and direct action.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast Neoplasms / chemically induced*
  • Carcinogens / adverse effects*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Cyclosporine / adverse effects*
  • Estradiol / blood
  • Female
  • Fibroadenoma / chemically induced*
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone / blood
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Menstrual Cycle
  • Middle Aged
  • Prolactin / blood
  • Prospective Studies
  • Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin / analysis

Substances

  • Carcinogens
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin
  • Estradiol
  • Cyclosporine
  • Prolactin
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone