Treatment of benign fibrocystic disease of the breast with 2-bromo-alpha-ergocryptine (CB 154).

A total of 192 patients with benign fibrocystic disease of the breast were studied. Diagnosis was based on the clinical picture, xerography, and/or mammography. Most of the patients were 30-45 years old. Hormonal studies including serum PRL, 17-beta-estradiol, progesterone, and gonadotropins were performed by means of specific and sensitive RIA techniques. Patients were allotted to treatment with 3 x 25 mg p.o. 2-bromo-alpha-ergocryptine (CB 154, Parlodel, Sandoz) continuously for a period of 3 months. In an attempt to establish a possible relationship between PRL levels and the disease, patients were divided into two groups with high or normal levels of PRL. Results indicate an improvement or complete recovery in about 75% of the cases. These results are independent of PRL levels. According to our experience CB 154 seems to be the most effective treatment of this disease.