Effects of Hormone Therapy on the Immune Systems of Postmenopausal Women With Chronic Infections

Must be a postmenopausal woman 65 years of age or younger. Time since last date of menses should be at least 12 months, with plasma estradiol less than 50 pg/ml and FSH greater than 50 pg/ml. Women must be without clinical evidence of CAD as determined by history, cardiovascular physical examination, and EKG. Must not have used hormone replacement therapy within past 6 months. Must not have used dietary supplements and any medication (over-the-counter or prescribed) within 1 month. Acetaminophen use is allowed. Must not have a history of alcoholism or binge-drinking. Must not have diabetes mellitus or known abnormal glucose intolerance test. Must not have a history of stroke, angina or myocardial infarction. Must not have a history of deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolism. Must not have a history of cancer (except for treated squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas). Must not have evidence of liver disease (liver function enzymes greater than twice the upper limit of normal). Must not have impaired renal function (creatinine greater than 1.6 mg/dl). Must not have a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroiditis, Raynaud's Disease). Must not have a history of intermittent vaginal bleeding. Must not have serum triglycerides greater than 400 mg/dL.