The endometrial adenocarcinoma as a model for hormone-dependency and hormone-responsiveness of gynaecological cancers

Abstract The endometrial adenocarcinoma is studied as a model for the hormone-dependency of gynaecological cancers to estrogens and for their hormone-responsiveness to progestogens and anti-estrogens. The evident direct and the possible indirect mechanisms of action of medroxyprogesterone and tamoxifen on the endometrial adenocarcinoma are elucidated in vitro as well as in vivo with special regard to histological, histochemical, cytological, biochemical, endocrinological and clinical data. The modalities, side-effects and monitoring of the treatment by means of medroxyprogesterone and tamoxifen in early and recurrent or metastatic endometrial adenocarcinoma are discussed. Finally, new perspectives are opened on combined anti-estrogen + progestogen treatment of all gynaecological malignancies, with special regard to the cytosol steroid receptor concentrations and to the bioavailability of progestogens and anti-estrogens.