Hyperplastic changes and receptor status in the breast tissue of bodybuilders under anabolic-androgenic steroid stimulation

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are misused by athletes to improve their physical performance. AAS with similar groups and configuration indicate that testosterone is the base of this ability to stimulate anabolic activity. The effect of these compounds on the breast tissue of males that consume them is a confirmation of its metabolic pathway. To confirm its hormonal effects, the status of estradiol and progesterone receptors (ER, PgR) status was determined in cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions (HRc, HRn) of 8 premalignant breast tissues from 8 bodybuilders (aged 21 to 45 years) under AAS stimulation. The control group included 5 males with benign disorders of the breast, but not due to AAS administration. The concentrations of ERc and ERn were significantly higher (p < .05) in males under AAS stimulation than in males without these. The concentrations of PgRc and PgRn do not differ between these two groups (p > .05) The benign breast disease is remarkably similar in female and male patients, suggesting a common origin. In the same way, the measurement of both HRc and HRn is necessary to accurately report receptor concentration.