Aminoglutethimide in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.

Aminoglutethimide in combination with dexamethasone has been used in 44 patients with metastatic breast cancer who had prior response to hormonal manipulation and/or positive estrogen receptors. Objective tumor response (complete response plus partial response) has been achieved in 19 of 44 patients. Responses were seen in soft tissue, bone, and pleura. Eleven of 44 patients had stable disease, and 14 patients had progressive disease. The median duration of response was 8 months. Side effects were moderate, including lethargy, rash, fever, and Cushingoid facies. This treatment is well tolerated and is an effective hormone manipulation in postmenopausal patients with metastatic breast carcinoma.