Tahreer K. AlHedad
Baghdad University, College of Medicine, Medical Physics, Baghdad, Iraq
Aedah Zeki Alkaisy
Baghdad University, College of Medicine, Medical Physics, Baghdad, Iraq
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Hereditary factors contribute to 5–10% of breast cancer cases, with elevated estrogen levels often implicated. Male breast cancer, although rare, presents unique challenges, particularly concerning the impact of radiotherapy on hormonal and hematological parameters. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of radiation therapy on blood components and hormone levels in male breast cancer patients. Objectives: The study focused on assessing changes in red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets, and lymphocytes, as well as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels in male breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Methods: This prospective clinical study was conducted at the Middle Euphrates Oncology Center, involving 26 male breast cancer patients receiving radiotherapy. The average patient age was 59.88 years, with mean physical characteristics including weight (93.46 kg), height (171.15 cm), and body surface area (2.06 m²). Most patients had advanced-stage cancer and were smokers. Blood samples were collected before and after radiotherapy and analyzed using the VIDAS® 30 multiparametric immunoassay system. Radiation doses ranged from 20 Gy to 25 Gy, administered in 2 Gy fractions. Results: Post-radiotherapy, significant decreases were observed in RBC, WBC, platelet, and lymphocyte counts, indicating compromised bone marrow function and immune response. Hormonal analysis revealed positive estrogen receptor status in 77% of patients and progesterone receptor positivity in 81%, highlighting the potential role of hormone-targeted therapies. Testosterone levels showed a marked decline post-treatment. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that radiotherapy significantly impacts hematological parameters and hormone levels in male breast cancer patients, emphasizing the need for close monitoring of these parameters during treatment. These results underscore the importance of individualized therapeutic strategies, including hormone-targeted approaches, to optimize patient outcomes. Statistical analysis confirmed the significance of these changes (p ≤ 0.05).
Keywords: Male Breast Cancer, Blood Screen, Radiotherapy.
