Cisplatin-based chemotherapy for stage II ovarian adenocarcinoma: a preliminary report

We have performed three sequential trials in patients with FIGO stage II ovarian cancer in an attempt to improve long-term survival. The first trial utilized whole-abdomen radiation and a pelvic boost and the second study utilized pelvic radiation plus melphalan chemotherapy. These trials resulted in estimated 5-year survivals of 40 and 50%, respectively (Gynecol. Oncol. 23, 168-175, 1986). In the current study, 20 patients were treated with 6 months of adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The estimated progression-free survival was only 45%. However, by tailoring salvage therapy to the findings at second-look laparotomy, the estimated 5-year survival was 77%. Notwithstanding the latter result of 77%, improved therapy is still required for the relatively rare patient who has stage II ovarian cancer.