Ovarian Colorado
Information for Providers
Treatment For Ovarian Cancer
Treatment For Advanced Disease
Surgical treatment may include en bloc resection of the uterus, ovaries and pelvic tumor, omentectomy, bowel resection, removal of peritoneal and diaphragmatic implants, splenectomy and appendectomy by a gynecological oncologist. There is a survival advantage for women who have as much tumor removed as possible.
Treatment For Early Stage Disease
Surgical treatment usually involves total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and staging of the disease. In some young women, reproductive conservation may be appropriate for those wishing to have children.
Chemotherapy
A combination of drugs including taxane and platinum achieves a response rate of 73% with median survival of 38 months for Stage III and IV ovarian cancer. However, 75% of patients have a recurrence. Treatment for recurrence can include secondary cytoreduction, retreatment with platinum drugs and taxane, and institution of second line chemotherapeutic agents. A number of antineoplastic agents have demonstrated sufficient biological activity to be considered. Other options include radiation therapy, immunotherapy or gene therapy. Patients should be offered the opportunity to participate in clinical trials.
Recommended Follow-Up
The Gynecological Cancer Foundation recommends rectovaginal pelvic exam and CA-125 measurement at 3-4 month intervals for the first two years, then at 6 month intervals for years 3-5. If symptoms recur, a CAT scan can be helpful. Discussion about general health maintenance and optimum lifestyle is also important.
