The status of receptors in laryngeal carcinoma: a study of receptors for estrogen, progesterone, androgens and glucocorticoids

In order to verify the hypothesized hormone sensibility of the laryngeal carcinoma, we evaluated the level of steroid receptors in this type of neoplasm and correlated this datum with common pathological and clinical prognostic indices. Estrogen and progesterone receptors were evaluated in 105 patients with a squamous cell carcinoma and 2 patients with a mucoepidermoid laryngeal carcinoma. Receptors for androgens and glucocorticoids were evaluated in 35 patients (all with a squamous cell carcinoma). Dosage was performed on fresh neoplastic tissue using the DCC (Dextran Coated Charcoal) method. Estrogen receptors were present in 26 cases (24.3%); progesterone receptors were present in 18 cases (16.8%); both receptors were revealed in 8 patients (7.5%). Androgen receptors were evident in 4 patients (4/35, 11.4%); glucocorticoid receptors were evident in 7 patients (7/35, 20%); both receptors were revealed in 4 (11.4%) cases. No statistical difference with regard to grading, site and extension of the cancer, extralaryngeal tissue involvement or node metastasis was noted in the groups of patients with or without steroid receptors.