An aromatase is a type of human enzyme, which is a protein that speeds up chemical processes. This enzyme converts male androgen hormones into female estrogens within the body of individuals of either gender. Aromatase inhibitors are typically used to slow the spread of breast cancer cells in women. Aromatase deficiency is known to prevent the normal development of certain sexual characteristics at birth or at puberty. Aromatase excess syndrome in men usually results in gynecomastia, or breast enlargement.
The leading cause of cancer-related death is metastasis, which refers to the spread of cancer cells beyond the tumor's point of origin. Estrogen is known to act as a catalyst for the growth of breast cancer cells. Aromatase inhibitors are sometimes used along with other breast cancer therapies to shrink or slow the growth of cancerous tumors. Inhibitors available by prescription include anastrozole, exemestane, and letrozole. Some natural bioflavonoids, such as resveratrol and quercetin, are being studied for their potential as alternative aromatase inhibitors.
Treatment for breast cancer with inhibitor drugs is usually attempted only in postmenopausal women because aromatase inhibitors can't stop the ovaries from making estrogen. Aromatase production can occur in many parts of the female body outside of the sexual organs. These may include some muscle tissue, bone marrow, bone, and liver.
A hormonal imbalance can be problematic regardless of whether or not there are too many of certain enzymes present in the body. Aromatase deficiency is a rare condition that develops in the womb and usually becomes apparent only at puberty. Girls affected by this deficiency may not develop normal female sexual characteristics. Boys tend to have normal or near-normal sex characteristics, but will be abnormally tall and at risk of osteoporosis.
Too much estrogen in men or boys can cause gynecomastia, or abnormal breast enlargement. This condition is common in pubescent children and usually resolves without treatment within a few months. It sometimes develops in middle-aged men as a result of the change in hormonal balance due to aging.