Use of Aromatase Inhibitors Raises Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Excess risk probably reflects low estrogen levels.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) results from compression of the median nerve in the wrist as it courses from the arm to the hand. In a large double-blind study, 3864 postmenopausal women (median age, 59.5) at elevated risk for breast cancer were randomized to the aromatase inhibitor (AI) anastrozole or placebo for 5 years.

At a median follow-up of 6.4 years, CTS was reported in 96 participants (3.4% and 1.6% in the anastrozole and placebo groups, respectively; P<0.001). Median time on study drug to diagnosis of CTS was 1.99 years. Most CTS in the AI group was considered mild to moderate in severity. Although the incidence of severe CTS was four times higher among women receiving the AI, this difference did not achieve statistical significance. …

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Use of Aromatase Inhibitors Raises Risk for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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Reviewing Author