Key points:
• Discussed the importance of surgical staging and primary debulking surgery
• The role of genetic testing, including BRCA and NGS, in treatment planning
• Adjuvant therapy options, focusing on platinum-based chemotherapy and the use of Bevacizumab
• Insights into PARP inhibitors and their application in BRCA-positive and wild-type patients
• Navigating treatment options for relapsed and refractory ovarian cancer, including the use of antibody-drug conjugates like Mirvetuximab and Trastuzumab deruxtecan (TDXd)
In this episode of the Oncology Brothers podcast, we shift our focus from endometrial cancer to the complexities of ovarian cancer. Drs. Rahul & Rohit Gosain are joined by Dr. Martina Murphy, an esteemed Associate Professor of Medicine and Senior Associate Dean of Graduate Medical Education at the University of Florida.
We began by discussing the initial diagnostic workup for patients with biopsy-proven ovarian cancer, emphasizing the importance of surgical staging and the role of genetic testing, particularly for BRCA mutations. Dr. Murphy highlighted that upfront surgery is critical for accurate staging and treatment planning, while also addressing the scenarios where neoadjuvant chemotherapy may be necessary.
As we delved into adjuvant therapy, Dr. Murphy explained that platinum-based chemotherapy is the standard for stages II through IV, with considerations for Bevacizumab based on individual clinician preferences. We also explored the use of PARP inhibitors, particularly for patients with BRCA mutations or homologous recombination deficiency, and discussed the importance of managing side effects associated with these therapies.
In the context of relapsed refractory disease, we navigated the complexities of treatment options for platinum-sensitive and platinum-resistant patients. Dr. Murphy shared her approach to utilizing agents like Mirvetuximab and TDXd, emphasizing the need for strategic sequencing of therapies based on individual patient characteristics.
Throughout the episode, we touched on the importance of genetic testing, the management of ocular toxicities associated with antibody-drug conjugates, and the overall need for community oncologists to be well-versed in the latest treatment options and their side effects.
We concluded with a recap of the key points discussed, reinforcing the critical role of surgery, genetic testing, and tailored treatment strategies in managing ovarian cancer. Thank you for tuning in, and we encourage you to check out our other episodes for more insights into oncology practice.