Fertility sparing therapy for ovarian cancer has inherent risks and benefits

Fertility sparing therapy for epithelial ovarian cancer has been suggested for well-selected patients with early stage disease. The overall recurrence rate of 10% and 5-year disease free survival greater than 90% is similar in conservative and traditional surgical management of epithelial ovarian cancer. Thus, conservative approaches may be considered in young women diagnosed with FIGO stage I cancer who wish to preserve reproductive function. Subsequent use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may facilitate production of biologic offspring in these cancer survivors. However, each candidate requires unique consideration by subspecialists to avoid potentially fatal management errors.

We present two cases in which fertility sparing therapy for early stage epithelial ovarian cancer was considered. The first case delineates the comprehensive work-up required to identify candidates for this therapy, while the second case illustrates the successful application of a fertility sparing approach.

The conservative management of early epithelial ovarian cancer and use of ART to obtain offspring are reviewed.