Steroid hormones and medications that alter cancer risks

Abstract

Alkylating agents have caused acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL), probably bladder cancer, and possibly other solid tumors. Phenacetin also has enhanced risk of bladder cancer, and probably also carcinoma of the renal pelvis. Topical nitrogen mustard, potassium arsenite, tar ointments, and methoxsalene have been related to development of nonmelanotic skin cancers. Immunosuppression by azathioprine, usually with prednisone, has enhanced risks of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, hepatobiliary cancers, and various mesenchymal tumors. Liver cancers have been reported in users of androgenic anabolic steroids, and both hepatic cell adenomas and carcinomas have been associated with use of combined oral contraceptives. These contraceptives reduce risks of endometrial and ovarian carcinomas. Estrogens increase risk of endometrial cancer. Exposure to diethylstilbestrol in utero can result in clear cell carcinomas of the vagina and cervix, and possibly testicular carcinomas.