H-3 THYMIDINE INCORPORATION INTO MAMMARY-CARCINOMA CELLS OBTAINED BY NEEDLE ASPIRATION BEFORE AND DURING ENDOCRINE THERAPY

  • 1 January 1976
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 20  (2) , 137-143
Abstract
3H-thymidine autoradiography was used to evaluate DNA synthesis in carcinoma cells obtained by fine-needle aspiration biopsy from mammary carcinomas. Needle aspirates were analyzed before and after oophorectomy, and before and during treatment with estrogen or antiestrogen (tamoxifen). Tumor regression occurred in 18 patients in 1 of 4 following oophorectomy, in 15 of 38 treated with tamoxifen and in 2 of 3 given estrogen. Seven tumors remained stationary for periods up to a year. In 20 cases there was tumor progression. Regression of tumors was preceded by a decrease in the fraction of 3H-thymidine-labeled cells (S phase cells). Tumors that remained stationary or progressed retained significant levels of 3H-thymidine incorporation. 3H-thymidine autoradiography can give an early estimate of tumor response to endocrine therapy. Considerable differences were found between the carcinomas in regard to proportions of S-phase cells. Further insight into this parameter may be useful for planning chemotherapy with S-phase specific agents.

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