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Quantitation of Intra-peritoneal Ovarian Cancer Metastasis
Published on: July 18, 2016
Latest research and treatment of advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer
Robert L Coleman1, Bradley J Monk, Anil K Sood
1Department of Gynecologic Oncology & Reproductive Medicine, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1155 Herman Pressler Drive, Houston, TX 77030, USA. rcoleman@ mdanderson.org
Abstract:
The natural history of ovarian cancer continues to be characterized by late-stage presentation, metastatic bulky disease burden and stagnant mortality statistics, despite prolific drug development. Robust clinical investigation, particularly with modifications to primary treatment surgical goals and adjuvant therapy are increasing median progression-free survival and overall survival, although the cure rates have been affected only modestly. Maintenance therapy holds promise, but studies have yet to identify an agent and/or strategy that can affect survival. Recurrent disease is largely an incurable state; however, current intervention with selected surgery, combination and targeted therapy and investigational protocols are impacting progression-free survival. Ovarian cancer is a diverse and genomically complex disease, which commands global attention. Rational investigation must balance the high rate of discovery with lagging clinical investigation and limited patient resources. Nevertheless, growth in our armamentarium offers unprecedented opportunities for patients suffering with this disease. This Review presents and reviews the contemporary management of the disease spectrum termed epithelial 'ovarian' cancer and describes the direction and early results of clinical investigation.
Insights
Ovarian cancer diagnosis often occurs late, with limited survival improvements despite new treatments. Ongoing research focuses on surgical modifications and maintenance therapies to improve outcomes for this complex disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gynecologic Oncology
Background:
- Ovarian cancer is frequently diagnosed at late stages with significant disease burden.
- Despite extensive drug development, mortality rates for ovarian cancer remain stagnant.
- Current treatments offer modest improvements in survival, with cure rates largely unaffected.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the contemporary management of epithelial ovarian cancer.
- To present the direction and early results of clinical investigations in ovarian cancer.
- To highlight the challenges and opportunities in ovarian cancer research.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical investigations and management strategies for ovarian cancer.
- Analysis of data regarding surgical modifications and adjuvant therapies.
- Evaluation of maintenance therapy and treatment for recurrent ovarian cancer.
Main Results:
- Modifications in surgical goals and adjuvant therapies are improving progression-free and overall survival.
- Maintenance therapy has not yet demonstrated a significant impact on survival.
- Interventions for recurrent ovarian cancer, including surgery and targeted therapies, are improving progression-free survival.
Conclusions:
- Ovarian cancer is a complex, diverse disease requiring global attention.
- Balancing rapid discovery with clinical investigation and patient resources is crucial.
- Advancements in treatment offer new hope for patients with ovarian cancer.
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