Intraperitoneal alpha interferon for ovarian cancer: a case report

Though therapeutic advances have been made in the treatment of ovarian carcinoma, success at achieving a cure in women with advanced disease has been elusive. Since advanced ovarian carcinoma is frequently confined to the peritoneum, the use of intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy is being studied. Dose-limiting toxicity and extended nausea and vomiting associated with intraperitoneal chemotherapy are problems with several of the drugs under study. The most beneficial drug for intraperitoneal use would be one that offers the maximum pharmacologic value without toxicity. An investigation at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in New Hampshire is exploring the use of alpha interferon in treating advanced ovarian carcinoma. This case report describes an individual's course of treatment and the challenges in managing the administration of the IP immunotherapy, anticipating problems, and identifying interventions necessary to achieving optimal patient comfort during this Phase I-II investigation.