[Regression of retroperitoneal fibrosis by combination therapy with tamoxifen and steroids].
BACKGROUND
Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis is characterised by proliferation and fibrosis of retroperitoneal tissue. It is complicated by obstruction and encasement of retroperitoneal structures.


METHODS
We describe two female patients with idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis. Both had to undergo lateralization of the ureter because of ureteral obstruction. Also both patients developed thrombosis of the inferior vena cava resp. the common iliac vein. Because of the eventful course of the disease a combined tamoxifen and steroid therapy was started. Hereafter there was a marked regression of the retroperitoneal fibrotic masses and the previous inflammatory signs disappeared.


CONCLUSIONS
Tamoxifen seems to be effective in the treatment of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis by inducing a regression of the fibrotic masses. Especially in patients with continuous activity of the disease we recommend an additional steroid therapy to prevent a regeneration of the fibrosis.
Allendorff
J
J
Innere Medizin IV, Universitätskliniken des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar.
Riegel
W
W
Köhler
H
H
D000368:Aged; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D004965:Estrogen Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008775:Methylprednisolone / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D008875:Middle Aged; D012185:Retroperitoneal Fibrosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013629:Tamoxifen / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D004965:Estrogen Antagonists; D013629:Tamoxifen; D008775:Methylprednisolone