Hormonal therapy in oncology: a primer for the radiologist

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive imaging review of the common hormonal therapies used in oncology and the side effects associated with them.

Conclusion: Commonly used hormones in oncology include corticosteroids, somatostatin analogues, progestins, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists, antiandrogens, aromatase inhibitors, and selective estrogen receptor modulators. Familiarity with these hormones and their side effects can help radiologists to be vigilant for the side effects and complications of these agents.

Keywords: aromatase inhibitors; corticosteroids; hormonal therapy; imaging; somatostatin; tamoxifen.