Mechanisms of chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage in breast cancer patients

Abstract

Fertility preservation in breast cancer patients is an increasingly relevant topic. In the present paper we review available data on the mechanism of ovarian damage caused by anticancer agents currently used for the treatment of breast cancer. We also describe current methods to preserve fertility including oocytes or ovarian tissue freezing and administration of LH-RHa during chemotherapy. The aim of the paper is to provide clinical oncologists with an adequate knowledge of the subject to enable them to give a correct counselling to young women that must receive chemotherapy and want to increase their possibilities of maintaining fertility.

Keywords: Alkylating agents; Fertility protection; Oocyte exhaustion; Ovarian damage; Premature ovarian failure.