0192 Does the stellate ganglion block reduce severe hot flushes and sleep disturbances in breast cancer patients

Therefore, we conducted a retrospective analysis to investigate the equivalent efficacy and safety of using the LH−RH analogue during CTx for Japanese breast cancer pts using a case–control study. Methods: Patients under 45-years-old receiving anthracycline (A) alone, taxane (T) alone or A followed by T combined CTx for more than 6 cycles were eligible for this case–control study. Each pt in the case group, who had given informed consent, was given the LH−RH analogue (Zoladex) 3.6mg s.c, every day for 28 days from 2−4weeks prior to the first CTx and to the last course of the planned regimen. The control data were obtained from a questionnaire survey from pts who did not receive an LH−RH analogue during their CTx over almost the same period. Results: Between November 2003 and June 2006, 28 pts and 41 controls were evaluated (median follow-up time: 42 months after CTx). In the control group, 37 pts had CIA (90.2%). Amenorrhea was observed in 60% of those who received only T vs 94% with A-based CTx. All pts completed 6−8 courses of CTx and the addition of the LH−RH analogue caused no severe adverse events. There was no significant difference in disease-free-survival between two groups. In the patient group with the LH−RH analogue, menses recovered significantly earlier than controls (Mean 290 vs 496 days, P=0.0129); however, there was no difference in the recovery rates. Among 48 pts over 35-yearsold, addition of the LH−RH analogue significantly shortened the median time to menses resumption (Mean 321 vs 531 days, P=0.0174), but in patients under 35-yr, LH−RH analogue use had no beneficial effect on the recovery of menses (P=0.9064). Moreover, Tamoxifen appeared to delay menses resumption (Mean 518 vs 316 days, P=0.0202). Out of 24 pts who recovered menses and had E2 levels in serum continuously measured after chemotherapy, 23 pts recovered their E2 levels within 1000 days. Conclusion: The addition of an LH−RH analogue to CTx for POF was safe and had a beneficial effect on the patients’ internal hormonal environments. POF may have a greater benefit for pts over 35-years-old. E2 levels may help to predict menses resumption.