Palliative treatment of endometrial cancer type 1 in elderly women with Anastrozole.

Abstract

Purpose: Type I endometrial cancer is a common disease which takes place in female genital tract. The aim of the work is to asset the feasibility and safety of anastrozole in the palliative treatment of endometrial cancer in elderly women not eligible to standard surgical treatment. Methods: eight patients with histological diagnosis of endometrial cancer were enrolled in this pilot study. Anastrozole was administered 1 mg daily per os after performing an accurate radiological mapping of the lesion. A questionnaire evaluated the quality of life of these patients. Results: the median age was 85 (range 80-88years). The endometrial cancer was confined to the uterus in all patients. No progression of disease was observed. A partial response to the therapy was reported in seven patients, while no response was reported in one patient. A decrease in the symptoms such as pain, vaginal bleeding and vaginal discomfort was reported, as well as no progression of disease. The endometrial thickness after twelve months has showed a reduction of 9.25 ± 4.77 mm. The average rate of follow-up was 18.25 months. Four women died for other reasons, none of them related to endometrial cancer. Evaluation of symptoms showed a significant reduction of appetite loss and insomnia, while a significant increase of global health status and fatigue was reported. Conclusion: our preliminary data reported that the palliative use of anastrozole may be a suitable therapy for a good control of early stages of endometrial cancer in inoperable elderly women, having a good compliance and tolerance.