Benign Liver Tumors and Oral Contraceptive Therapy

Abstract

Clinical data obtained from 1972–1978 on 107 cases of oral-contraceptive-steroid-associated hepatic adenomas is presented in tabular form. Although a cause-and-effect relationship has not been definitively established, experimental evidence that supports an etiological role of contraceptive steroids in the production of benign liver tumors is described. Based on metabolic and toxicity studies, a mechanism is postulated whereby contraceptive steroid therapy may result in induced activities of drug metabolizing enzymes. In certain circumstances, increased levels of activated metabolites may irreversibly bind to hepatic macromolecules and produce altered cell growth. The possible promoter role of oral contraceptive steroids in tumor formation is discussed.