Current First-line Therapy for Ovarian Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers constitute the deadliest gynecologic malignancies. After primary cytoreductive surgery, there are several standard first-line cytotoxic treatments for providers to consider. Newer molecular targeted therapies are becoming more common and may have a role as first-line therapy in the future.

This article provides an evidence-based review of all approved standard therapies for first-line treatment of advanced-stage, high-grade serous ovarian cancer. Treatment schedules, dose modifications, and drug substitutions are reviewed. Ongoing trials and pending approvals for newer molecular therapies are discussed.

A comprehensive primary literature review was performed using MEDLINE, the Cochrane Collaborative Database, and PubMed. Guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and the Society for Gynecologic Oncology were also reviewed.

Seven different approved first-line regimens for high-grade serous ovarian cancer are available based on literature review. These vary in route of administration, dose intensity, drug combinations, and treatment schedules. Molecular targeted therapies, including antiangiogenic drugs and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, have also been studied in multiple randomized controlled trials in the first-line setting.

Cytotoxic regimens remain the foundation of first-line treatment for high-grade serous ovarian cancer. Choosing which regimen is best for a patient depends on both patient and disease factors. Molecular therapies in first-line treatment are a promising and exciting possibility, with regulatory approval pending.