EFFECTS OF ONE-YEAR ADJUVANT TREATMENT WITH TAMOXIFEN ON BONE-MINERALDENSITY IN POSTMENOPAUSAL BREAST-CANCER WOMEN

In this study, the authors have analyzed the possible effects of one-y ear adjuvant treatment with tamoxifen on bone mineral density in postm enopausal breast cancer women. Bone mineral content was studied by pho ton absorptiometry (I-125), whereas bone balance was analyzed indirect ly by serum PTH, osteocalcin, calcitonin, calcium and alkaline phospha tase levels. Bone mineral content and serum bone-related substances we re measured before starting treatment and after one year. Results were analyzed using Student's t test fdr paired data. No difference was fo und between the two measurements for bone mineral content, PTH, calcit onin, calcium and alkaline phosphatase levels. Measurements at entry a nd after one year of treatment showed a statistically significant diff erence (P < 0.001) only for osteocalcin. In accordance with other auth ors, we can conclude that treatment with tamoxifen does not cause an i ncrease in menopausal bone resorption. The finding that osteocalcin le vels decreased after one year of therapy with tamoxifen is interesting , but further studies are necessary to clarify the role of such levels in predicting a turnover of bone balance towards osteoblastic activit y.