Current status of hormonal treatments for metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To review hormonal treatments for advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

DATA SOURCES

Published manuscripts, oncology journals, and clinical experience.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Traditionally, hormonal treatments have included surgery and manipulation of estrogen, progestin, or androgen levels. Selective aromatase inhibitors have the advantage of a low side effect profile and offer a new treatment option for advanced breast cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

New drug development has made a significant contribution to safe and effective oral treatments for advanced breast cancer with improved side effect profiles.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

An increased awareness of hormonal treatments in advanced breast cancer will help nurses educate, counsel, and promote patient awareness and acceptance.