Hormonal therapy for menopause following giant cell tumor of bone removal in T9

Eleven years ago, (age 26) I had a giant cell tumor of the bone removed from T9 and fusion of T8-T10. Tumor was discovered one week after giving birth. Radiation and chemo was not indicated although sterilization was done to prevent further pregnancy and possible reoccurrence of tumor. I am planning to have a hysterectomy and would like to have the issue of hormonal therapy re-evaluated. At the time of surgery, all surgeons made it very clear to never take any hormonal therapy. Current physicians feel that replacement therapy is acceptable but suggest I get in touch with original surgeons citing "they are more aware of the findings..." Original surgeons have died or retired. I am not sure who I should contact to evaluate, and am interested in your thoughts. I understand theory behind replacement therapy shouldn't aggravate but am still hesitant due to high insistance of sterilization and no hormonal tx.

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Juliebug:

Sorry that you have a tumor resection. I am not sure what to tell you as giant cell tumors usually are not hormonally responsive and the therapy is surgical.  If the tumor was an ependymoma or astrocytoma these too are usually not hormonally responsive.  Now if the tumor was a meningioma things might be different as some meningomas contain receptors for female hormones.  I would try and get the records of the pathology of your tumor and see exactly what type of tumor you had.

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD