Tamoxifen in the treatment of male breast carcinoma

Patients with advanced carcinoma of the male breast treated with tamoxifen citrate should be the first line of endocrine therapy before orchidectomy or adrenalectomy, according to the singular lack of side-effects.

Abstract

Twenty-four patients with advanced carcinoma of the male breast have been treated with tamoxifen citrate (Nolvadex). An objective regression rate of 37.5% was obtained, with five complete and four partial responses. In addition, two patients had stabilisation of their disease for 24 months each. Regression of disease was noted in soft-tissue disease, bone and lung metastases. The duration of response ranged from 8 months to 60 months with a mean of 21 months. In view of the singular lack of side-effects and the age group of the patients (mean age 63 years), it is suggested that tamoxifen should be the first line of endocrine therapy before orchidectomy or adrenalectomy.