Paclitaxel-Cisplatin regimen as First-Line Chemotherapy after Cytoreductive Surgery in Patients with Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Kim, Sang Hee; Song, Yong Jung; Lee, Hyang; Lee, Sam Mi; Choi, Suck Chul; Ryu, Sang Young; Kim, Byoung Gie; Park, Sang Yoon; Lee, Kyung Hee

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this retrospective study is to assess the efficacy and toxicity of paclitaxel/cisplatin as first-line chemotherapy after cytoreductive surgery in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer. MATERIAL & METHODS: From November 1999 to April 2001, 31 patients with histologically-proven epithelial ovarian cancer not previously treated with chemotherapy entered the study. FIGO stage IA or IB and grade 1 or 2 tumors were excluded. A comprehensive staging was performed during initial laparotomy. Paclitaxel was administered at a dose of 135 mg/m2, intravenously with cisplatin (75 mg/m2) every 3 weeks for 6 planned cycles, with prophylactic oral dexamethasone regimen (20 mg b.i.d.). The response of patients was evaluated with tumor markers and CT before and after chemotherapy. Responses and toxicities were defined according to the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) criteria.
RESULTS
The overall response rates were 73% (16/22) in patients with residual disease after cytoreductive surgery (complete response, 64%; partial response, 9%). The median survival was 18 months. Grade 3/4 neutropenia and neuropathy (grade 2) were observed in 16 (52%), 12 (39%) patients, respectively.
CONCLUSION
The combination of paclitaxel and cisplatin is a well tolerated regimen with significant activity in the treatment of epithelial ovarian carcinoma after surgery.