Estrogen and the Postmenopausal Breast

Abstract
Postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy may produce changes in the breast demonstrable as cystic or dysplastic by mammography. Following cessation of the hormone therapy, radiological regression of these changes may be seen. We suggest that in certain patients estrogen replacement therapy be discontinued in an attempt to reverse these dysplastic changes. Reliable radiologic as well as clinical evaluation of the breasts may be enhanced thereby, and if the presence of an associated malignant neoplasm is masked, it will be clarified radiologically and clinically. (JAMA240:1733-1735, 1978)