Top 100 book questions

Question 1

an 84 year old woman has started taking anastrozole after being found to have advanced breast cancer

Which best describes the MOA
- 5alpha reductase inhibition
- Aromatase inhbition
- Inhibition or ergosterol synthesis
- LH/ FSH suppresion
- Selective oestrogen receptor modulation

Answer 1

Anastrozole is an aromatase inhibitor, which blocks the conversion of androgens to oestrogens in peripheral tissues. This reduces circulating oestrogen levels, which is crucial in treating oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women.

Question 2

28 Year old woman is started on tamoxifen for locally advanced oestrogen receptor positive breast cancer
What is the most appropriate advice to give her regarding potential Side effects

• It can stimulate milk production from her breasts
• It causes infertility
• It is safe to take in pregnancy
• There is an increased risk of cancer of the lining of the womb
• There is an increased risk of ovarian cancer

Answer 2

Tamoxifen is associated with an increased risk of endometrial (womb lining) cancer, especially in postmenopausal women. Patients should be advised to report any abnormal vaginal bleeding.