Primary cytoreductive surgery and adjuvant hormonal monotherapy in women with advanced low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma: Reducing overtreatment without compromising survival?

The association of maintenance hormone therapy with overall survival in advanced-stage low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma: A risk-set matched retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a multi-institutional observational study to investigate whether maintenance hormone therapy following primary treatment of low-grade advanced-stage ovarian cancer (LGSOC) is associated with an overall survival advantage.

METHODS

We included patients with histologically confirmed stage III or IV LGSOC diagnosed between Jan 1, 2004, and Dec 31, 2019, treated in Commission on Cancer-accredited cancer programs in the US. Patients who received hormone therapy within six months of diagnosis were matched to controls who did not initiate hormone therapy during this timeframe by risk-set propensity score matching. The primary outcome was the risk of death from any cause within five years of initiation of HT or observation.

RESULTS

There were 296 patients who initiated maintenance hormone therapy within six months of diagnosis and 2805 potential controls. Patients who received hormone therapy were more often treated in academic medical centers (55% vs. 44%), diagnosed later in the study period (62% vs. 23% diagnosed in 2018-2019), and frequently received no chemotherapy during initial treatment (45% vs. 17%). After risk set propensity score matching, we identified 225 patients treated with HT and 225 untreated controls who were otherwise similar with respect to measured covariates. In the matched cohort, hormone therapy was associated with a reduction in the risk of death (hazard ratio 0.60; 95% CI 0.38-0.94), corresponding to a 60-month survival of 75% compared with 65%.

CONCLUSIONS

Following primary management of LGSOC, maintenance hormone therapy was associated with improved overall survival compared with observation.

Steroid metabolism and hormonal dynamics in normal and malignant ovaries

The ovaries are key steroid hormone production sites in post-pubertal females. However, current research on steroidogenic enzymes, endogenous hormone concentrations and their effects on healthy ovarian function and malignant development is limited. Here, we discuss the importance of steroid enzymes in normal and malignant ovaries, alongside hormone concentrations, receptor expression and action. Key enzymes include STS, 3β-HSD2, HSD17B1, ARK1C3, and aromatase, which influence ovarian steroidal action. Both androgen and oestrogen action, via their facilitating enzyme, drives ovarian follicle activation, development and maturation in healthy ovarian tissue. In ovarian cancer, some data suggest STS and oestrogen receptor α may be linked to aggressive forms, while various oestrogen-responsive factors may be involved in ovarian cancer metastasis. In contrast, androgen receptor expression and action vary across ovarian cancer subtypes. For future studies investigating steroidogenesis and steroidal activity in ovarian cancer, it is necessary to differentiate between disease subtypes for a comprehensive understanding.

Targeted Therapies in Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancers

OPINION STATEMENT

Low grade serous carcinoma of the ovary has been delineated as a separate entity from its counterpart high grade serous carcinoma of the ovary. Molecular profiling has helped to further characterize this disease process and has led to new and exciting treatment options. Surgery has always been a cornerstone of management both in primary and recurrent disease settings. Chemotherapy has been a long-standing backbone of adjuvant treatment, but its efficacy continues to be questioned. Hormonal therapy for upfront and recurrent disease is an effective treatment option with a high response rate and minimal side effects. Newer therapies including MEK, CDK 4/6, and PI3KCA inhibitors have emerged as exciting options for recurrent disease. Ongoing clinical trials will hopefully lead to additional therapeutic opportunities based on novel biomarkers in this disease.

Outcome and prognostic factors of low‑grade serous ovarian cancer: An observational retrospective study

Low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC) is a very rare histological subtype of serous ovarian cancer, representing ~2% of all epithelial ovarian cancer cases. LGSOC has a better prognosis but a lower response rate to chemotherapy in comparison to high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC). The present study is a retrospective review of the medical records of all patients with histologically proven LGSOC diagnosed and treated in a single institute between January 2003 and December 2019. A total of 23 patients diagnosed with LGSOC and treated at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia) were identified. The median age at diagnosis was 45.5 years (range, 26-66 years) and the median body mass index was 26.1 (range, 18-43). A total of 21 patients (91.3%) had de novo LGSOC, whereas only 2 patients (8.7%) had LGSOC that had transformed from serous borderline ovarian tumors and recurred. A total of 8 patients (34.8%) were diagnosed with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IV, whereas 3 (13.0%), 3 (13.0%) and 9 (39.1%) were diagnosed with stages I, II and III, respectively. In addition, 10 (43.5%), 5 (21.7%), and 3 (13.0%) patients had complete response, stable disease and partial response statuses after first-line therapy, respectively. At a median follow-up time of 34 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 25.32-42.69], the median progression-free survival (PFS) time was 75.2 months (95% CI, 17.35-133.05) and the median overall survival (OS) time was not reached. In conclusion, LGSOC exhibited better PFS and OS times than HGSOC as compared with data from the literature, and there is the option for systemic treatment (chemotherapy or hormonal therapy). Optimal cytoreduction showed numerically higher, but non-significant, PFS and OS times compared with suboptimal debulking; however, the optimal systemic chemotherapy or hormonal treatment remains controversial.

Durable response to BRAF inhibitor monotherapy in recurrent metastatic low grade serous ovarian cancer

Low grade serous ovarian cancers (LGSOC) in an advanced setting have limited systemic treatment options. In this paper we report a case of metastatic LGSOC harboring a BRAF mutation, treated with dabrafenib. We discuss the clinical, pathologic and molecular characteristics as well as surgical considerations and ongoing investigations in LGSOC.

Exploring novel approaches in the systemic therapy of low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary: a literature review

By presenting a comprehensive analysis of low-grade serous carcinomas (LGSCs), a subset of epithelial ovarian cancers, this review delves into their distinct molecular characteristics, clinicopathological features and systemic therapy options, emphasizing their differences from high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSCs). Notably, LGSCs exhibit prevalent RAS/RAF/MEK/MAPK pathway activation, KRAS and BRAF mutations, and infrequent p53 mutations. While chemotherapy is commonly employed, LGSCs display lower responsiveness compared to HGSCs. Hormone therapy, particularly endocrine maintenance therapy, is explored due to the higher estrogen receptor expression. Novel therapeutic approaches involving CDK4/6 inhibitors, MEK inhibitors, and antiangiogenic agents like bevacizumab are also investigated. Ongoing clinical trials are striving to enhance LGSC treatment strategies, offering valuable insights for future therapeutic advancements in this challenging ovarian cancer subtype.

Novel Endocrine Therapeutic Opportunities for Estrogen Receptor-Positive Ovarian Cancer-What Can We Learn from Breast Cancer?

Low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC) is a rare ovarian malignancy primarily affecting younger women and is characterized by an indolent growth pattern. It exhibits indolent growth and high estrogen/progesterone receptor expression, suggesting potential responsiveness to endocrine therapy. However, treatment efficacy remains limited due to the development of endocrine resistance. The mechanisms of resistance, whether primary or acquired, are still largely unknown and present a significant hurdle in achieving favorable treatment outcomes with endocrine therapy in these patients. In estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, mechanisms of endocrine resistance have been largely explored and novel treatment strategies to overcome resistance have emerged. Considering the shared estrogen receptor positivity in LGSOC and breast cancer, we wanted to explore whether there are any parallel mechanisms of resistance and whether we can extend endocrine breast cancer treatments to LGSOC. This review aims to highlight the underlying molecular mechanisms possibly driving endocrine resistance in ovarian cancer, while also exploring the available therapeutic opportunities to overcome this resistance. By unraveling the potential pathways involved and examining emerging strategies, this review explores valuable insights for advancing treatment options and improving patient outcomes in LGSOC, which has limited therapeutic options available.

Advances in precision therapy of low-grade serous ovarian cancer: A review

Low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (LGSOC) is a rare subtype of ovarian cancer that accounts for approximately 6% to 10% of serous ovarian cancers. The clinical treatment of LGSOC is similar to that of high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, however, its clinical and molecular characteristics are different from those of high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma. This article reviews the research on gene diagnosis, surgical treatment, chemotherapy, and biological therapy of LGSOC, providing reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment of LGSOC. Surgery is the cornerstone of LGSOC treatment and maximum effort must be made to achieve R0 removal. Although LGSOC is not sensitive to chemotherapy, postoperative platinum-based combination chemotherapy remains the first-line treatment option for LGSOC. Additional clinical trials are needed to confirm the clinical benefits of chemotherapy and explore new chemotherapy protocols. Hormone and targeted therapies may also play important roles. Some patients, particularly those with residual lesions after treatment, may benefit from hormone maintenance therapy after chemotherapy. Targeted therapies, such as MEKi, show good application prospects and are expected to change the treatment pattern of LGSOC. Continuing to further study the genomics of LGSOC, identify its specific gene changes, and combine traditional treatment methods with precision targeted therapy based on second-generation sequencing may be the direction for LGSOC to overcome the treatment bottleneck. In future clinical work, comprehensive genetic testing should be carried out for LGSOC patients to accumulate data for future scientific research, in order to find more effective methods and drugs for the treatment of LGSOC.

Case report: ex vivo tumor organoid drug testing identifies therapeutic options for stage IV ovarian carcinoma

Patients presenting with stage 4 ovarian carcinoma, including low-grade serous disease, have a poor prognosis. Although platinum-based therapies can offer some response, these therapies are associated with many side effects, and treatment resistance often develops. Toxic side effects along with disease progression render patients unable to receive additional lines of treatment and limit their options to hospice or palliative care. In this case report, we describe a patient with an unusual case of metastatic low-grade serous ovarian cancer with some features of high-grade disease who had received four previous lines of treatment and was suffering from atelectasis, pulmonary embolism, and hydronephrosis. A CLIA-certified drug sensitivity assay of an organoid culture derived from the patient's tumor (PARIS® test) identified several therapeutic options, including the combination of fulvestrant with everolimus. On this treatment regimen, the patient experienced 7 months of stable disease and survived nearly 11 months before succumbing to her disease. This case emphasizes the clinical utility of ex vivo drug testing as a new functional precision medicine approach to identify, in real-time, personalized treatment options for patients, especially those who are not benefiting from standard of care treatments.

Impact of adjuvant chemotherapy on the overall survival of patients with advanced-stage low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma following primary cytoreductive surgery

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the use and outcomes of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with advanced-stage low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma following primary cytoreductive surgery.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2015 with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage II-IV low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma who underwent primary debulking surgery with known residual disease status and had at least 1 month of follow-up were identified in the National Cancer Database. Adjuvant chemotherapy was defined as receipt of chemotherapy within 6 months of surgery. Overall survival was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared with the log-rank test. A Cox model was constructed to control for a priori-selected confounders. A systematic review of the literature was also performed.

RESULTS

In total, 618 patients with stage II-IV low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma who underwent primary cytoreductive surgery were identified; 501 (81.1%) patients received adjuvant chemotherapy, while 117 (18.9%) patients did not. The median follow-up of the present cohort was 47.97 months. There was no difference in overall survival between patients who did and did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy (p=0.78; 4-year overall survival rates were 77.5% and 76.1%, respectively). After controlling for patient age, medical co-morbidities, disease stage, and residual disease status, administration of adjuvant chemotherapy was not associated with better overall survival (HR=0.87, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.38). Based on data from three retrospective studies, omission of adjuvant chemotherapy following cytoreductive surgery was not associated with worse progression-free survival benefit (HR=1.25, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.95) for patients with stage III-V low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant chemotherapy may not be associated with an overall survival benefit for patients with advanced-stage low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma following primary cytoreductive surgery.

Low-grade serous ovarian cancer: expert consensus report on the state of the science

Compared with high-grade serous carcinoma, low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary or peritoneum is a less frequent epithelial ovarian cancer type that is poorly sensitive to chemotherapy and affects younger women, many of whom endure years of ineffective treatments and poor quality of life. The pathogenesis of this disease and its management remain incompletely understood. However, recent advances in the molecular characterization of the disease and identification of novel targeted therapies with activity in low-grade serous carcinoma offer the promise of improved outcomes. To update clinicians regarding recent scientific and clinical trial advancements and discuss unanswered questions related to low-grade serous carcinoma diagnosis and treatment, a panel of experts convened for a workshop in October 2022 to develop a consensus document addressing pathology, translational research, epidemiology and risk, clinical management, and ongoing research. In addition, the patient perspective was discussed. The recommendations developed by this expert panel-presented in this consensus document-will guide practitioners in all settings regarding the clinical management of women with low-grade serous carcinoma and discuss future opportunities to improve research and patient care.

Exploration of pyroptosis-associated prognostic gene signature and lncRNA regulatory network in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC), is a tumor that poses a serious threat to women's health due to its high mortality rate and bleak prognosis. Pyroptosis, a type of programmed cell death, is important for determining the prognosis of a patient's prognosis for cancer and may represent a novel target for treatment. However, research into how prognosis is impacted by pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) is poorly understood. In this study, a prognostic model was created using bioinformatic analysis of PRGs in OC. In OC, we discovered 18 pyroptosis regulators that were either up- or down-regulated. By analyzing prognoses, we developed a 9-genes based prognostic model. Each OC patient received a risk score that could be used to categorize them into two subgroups: those with high risk and/or low chance of survival and those with low risk and/or high chance of survival. Functional enrichment and immunoinfiltration analysis indicated that low expression of immune pathways in high-risk group may account for the decrease of survival possibility. In Multivariable cox regression studies, age, clinical stage and the prognostic model were discovered to be independent factors impacting the prognosis for OC. To forecast OC patient survival, a predictive nomogram was developed. Furthermore, we found a correlation between predictive PRGs and clinical stage, indicating that AIM2, CASP3, ZBP1 and CASP8 may play a role in the growth of tumor in OC. After detailed and complete bioinformatics analysis, the lncRNA RP11-186B7.4/hsa-miR-449a/CASP8/AIM2/ZBP1 regulatory axis was identified in OC. Our study may provide a novel approach for prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of OC.

Hormone Receptors and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Recent Advances in Biology and Treatment Options

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality in women. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, EOC remains a challenging disease to manage, and the 5-year survival rate is still poor. The role of hormone receptors (HRs) in EOC carcinogenesis and prognosis has been actively explored; however, the role of hormone therapy (HT) in the treatment of these tumors is not well established. Most available data on HT mainly come from retrospective series and small early clinical trials. Several of these studies suggest that HT may have a role in adjuvant, maintenance therapy, or in the case of recurrent disease, especially for some subtypes of EOC (e.g., low-grade serous EOC). Furthermore, HT has recently been combined with targeted therapies, but most studies evaluating these combinations are still ongoing. The main aim of this review is to provide an overview of the progress made in the last decade to characterize the biological and prognostic role of HRs for EOC and the developments in their therapeutic targeting through HT.

Androgen receptor expression in low grade serous ovarian cancer; clinical considerations in the diagnosis, treatment and surveillance of disease in a transgender male

•Low grade serous (LGS) ovarian cancer is an uncommon cancer.•Androgen receptor expression testing is not routinely performed in patients with LGS ovarian cancer.•Systemic androgen levels may be elevated in patients with PCOS or those taking exogenous testosterone.•Consideration should be made to include androgen receptor testing for these patients.

Distinct histopathological features are associated with molecular subtypes and outcome in low grade serous ovarian carcinoma

Low grade serous ovarian carcinoma (LGSOC) demonstrates unique clinical and molecular features compared to other ovarian cancer types. The relationship between common histological features of LGSOC and molecular events, such as hormone receptor expression patterns and MAPK gene mutation status, remains poorly understood. Recent data suggest some of these molecular features may be biomarkers of response to recently introduced biologically-targeted therapies, namely endocrine therapy and MEK inhibitors. We utilize a cohort of 63 pathologically-confirmed LGSOC cases with whole exome sequencing and hormone receptor expression data to investigate these relationships. LGSOC cases demonstrated uniformly high oestrogen receptor (ER) expression, but variable progesterone receptor (PR) expression intensity. 60% and 37% of cases demonstrated micropapillary and macropapillary patterns of stromal invasion, respectively. 63% of cases demonstrated desmoplasia, which was significantly associated with advanced disease stage and visible residual disease after cytoreductive surgery. MAPK-mutant cases (KRAS, BRAF, NRAS) more frequently demonstrated macropapillary stromal invasion, while Chr1p loss was associated with desmoplasia and low PR expression. Presence of micropapillary stromal invasion and low PR expression were associated with significantly poorer survival after accounting for stage and residual disease status. Together, these data identify novel relationships between histopathological features and molecularly-defined subgroups in LGSOC.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer by histology: A SEER based survival analysis

To evaluate the prognostic effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients with different histological subtype. Stage III/IV EOC patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2018 were identified from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results database (SEER) database and stratified by histological subtype. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used for the assessment of overall survival (OS) cause-specific survival (CSS) before and after matching for baseline characteristics between NACT and primary debulking surgery (PDS) groups. Cox proportional risk model was conducted to identify independent prognostic factors. A total of 13,582 patients were included in the analysis. Of them, 9505 (74.50%) received PDS and 3253 (25.50%) received NACT. Overall, an inferior OS and CSS was observed among patients with high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) receiving NACT, while NACT served as a protective factor in clear cell carcinoma and carcinosarcoma in both original cohorts and adjusted cohorts. For other histo-subtypes, PDS showed survival benefit over NACT in certain cohorts of models. Prognostic effect of NACT in advanced EOC differed from pathological subtypes. Although it served as a risk factor for HGSC, patients with less common subtypes may benefit from NACT.

Exploration of chemotherapy-free regimen after multi-line chemotherapy-induced renal impairment in recurrent ovarian cancer: Case report and literature review

Introduction

Platinum-based combination chemotherapy is recommended first choice for relapsed ovarian cancer. However, many of the chemotherapeutic agents are nephrotoxic and can promote kidney dysfunction, which affect the efficacy of cancer treatment and the survival of the patient. There is a need to explore long-term treatments of chemotherapy-free regimen of chronic kidney disease in recurrent ovarian cancer.

Case presentation

A 41-year-old female patient was presented with stage IIIC well-differentiated ovarian serous papillary adenocarcinoma in 2009. The patient had recurrence of platinum resistance after secondary cytoreductive surgery, and it was difficult to continue chemotherapy after multiple lines of chemotherapy due to myelosuppression, renal impairment and other factors. The patient accepted Niraparib-based treatment regimen after multi-line chemotherapy-induced stage 4 chronic kidney disease. Niraparib combined with anlotinib achieved median PFS of 11 months, disease re-progression, and the patient was switched to niraparib combined with letrozole from October 2021. No evidence of tumor progression was observed till date and the renal toxicity is acceptable.

Conclusions

In patients with relapsed ovarian cancer, treatment becomes increasingly challenging to subsequent therapies because of renal impairment and emerging drug resistance. Niraparib-based treatment regimen may be a good choice for patients with well-differentiated serous adenocarcinoma of the ovary who are intolerant to chemotherapy.

Disparity in the era of personalized medicine for epithelial ovarian cancer

The treatment of high-grade serous ovarian cancer and high-grade endometrioid ovarian cancer has seen significant improvements in recent years, with BRCA1/2 and homologous recombination status guiding a personalized approach which has resulted in improved patient outcomes. However, for other epithelial ovarian cancer subtypes, first-line treatment remains unchanged from the platinum-paclitaxel trials of the early 2000s. In this review, we explore novel therapeutic approaches being adopted in the treatment of clear cell, mucinous, carcinosarcoma and low-grade serous ovarian cancer and the biological rational behind them. We discuss why such disparities exist, the challenges faced in conducting dedicated trials in these rarer histologies and look towards new approaches being adopted to overcome them.

Low grade serous ovarian cancer - A rare disease with increasing therapeutic options

High-grade serous ovarian cancers (HGSOCs) most commonly arise from the fimbrial end of the fallopian tube and harbor TP53 gene mutations. In contrast, low-grade serous ovarian cancers (LGSOCs) appear to have different pathological, epidemiological, and clinical features and should be seen as a distinct serous epithelial ovarian cancer subtype. Our current understanding of LGSOC is limited, and treatment has generally been derived from the more common HGSOCs due to a lack of separate trial data. LGSOCs are characterized by slow tumor growth and are assumed to develop from serous borderline ovarian tumors as precursors. These cancers are often estrogen-receptor positive and show an activated mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway together with KRAS and BRAF mutations and, rarely, TP53 mutations. These characteristics are now commonly used to guide therapeutical decision making and, consequently, a substantial part of treatment consists of maintenance with endocrine treatment, thus balancing disease stabilization and mild toxicity. Additionally, new trials are ongoing that examine the role of targeted therapies such as MEK inhibitors in combination with endocrine treatments. The purpose of this work is to summarize current knowledge and present ongoing trial efforts for LGSOCs.

Contemporary primary treatment of women with stage II-IV low-grade serous ovarian/peritoneal cancer (LGSOC): Determinants of relapse and disease-free survival

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present study is to describe a cohort who received contemporary primary treatment for stage II-IV low-grade serous ovarian/peritoneal cancer (LGSOC), including patient characteristics and determinants of relapse and disease-free survival.

METHODS

The study included 99 patients: 1) with pathologically confirmed stage II-IV LGSOC of the ovary or peritoneum, 2) who underwent primary treatment consisting of cytoreductive surgery and either a) platinum/taxane chemotherapy followed by aromatase inhibitor maintenance therapy or b) aromatase inhibitor monotherapy, and 3) for whom there was availability of clinical data. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize clinicodemographic features. Subgroups were compared for PFS and OS. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Median PFS for the entire cohort was 56.8 months (95% CI, 41.3-NE), and median OS was 130.7 months (95% CI, 115.0-146.4). Forty-nine of 99 (49.5%) patients have relapsed to date. For these 49 patients, median time from diagnosis to relapse was 29.6 months (95% CI, 24.6-33.1) (range, 5.4-69.1 months). Only 1/49 (2%) patients who relapsed did so >5 years from diagnosis. Fifty (50.0%) patients have not experienced disease progression or relapse. Median follow-up time for these 50 patients is 86.2 months (range, 25.3-169.0). Thirty-three of the 50 (66.0%) have been followed for >5 years from diagnosis. On regression analyses, factors associated with improved patient outcomes-either PFS, OS, or both-included no gross residual disease, normal serum CA 125 at diagnosis, primary peritoneal site, and presence of extensive psammomatous calcifications.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report to describe the clinicopathologic features and outcomes of women with stage II-IV LGSOC who received contemporary primary therapy.

NCCN Guidelines® Insights: Ovarian Cancer, Version 3.2022

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynecologic cancer in the United States, with less than half of patients living >5 years following diagnosis. The NCCN Guidelines for Ovarian Cancer provide recommendations for the diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and follow-up for patients with ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers. These NCCN Guidelines Insights summarize the panel discussion behind recent important updates to the guidelines, including revised guidance on alternative chemotherapy regimens for patients with advanced age and/or comorbidities, a new algorithm for recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma based on developing research and novel therapeutic agents, and updated language regarding tumor molecular analysis applications in ovarian cancer.

Evaluation of the prognostic value of lymphadenectomy for low-grade serous ovarian cancer: A case-control multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The prognostic value of lymphadenectomy in low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC) remains uncertain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 155 patients with LGSOC who underwent surgery over a ten-year period (2011-2020) was performed. The propensity score matching (PSM) algorithm was performed between the lymphadenectomy and no lymphadenectomy groups, and Kaplan-Meier analyses were conducted to evaluate clinical prognosis. Finally, univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to analyze high-risk factors associated with clinical prognosis.

RESULTS

In the pre-PSM cohort, 110 (71.0%) patients underwent lymphadenectomy. Of these, 54 (34.8%) experienced recurrence, and 27 (17.4%) died. There were statistical differences in disease-free survival (DFS) (P = 0.018) and overall survival (OS) (P = 0.016) in the post-PSM cohort. In the subgroup analysis, there were no statistically significant differences in DFS (P = 0.449) or OS (P = 0.167) in the FIGO I/II cohort. However, in the FIGO III/IV cohort, DFS (P = 0.011) and OS (P = 0.046) were statistically different between the two groups. Age > 50 years, FIGO stage III/IV, and suboptimal cytoreductive surgery were risk factors associated with prognosis. In the lymphadenectomy group, the histological status of pelvic lymph nodes had no significant effect on DFS (P = 0.205) or OS (P = 0.114).

CONCLUSION

Lymphadenectomy was associated with DFS and OS, particularly in patients with advanced LGSOC patients. Age > 50 years, advanced FIGO stage III/IV, and suboptimal cytoreductive surgery were high-risk factors associated with clinical prognosis in patients with LGSOC.

Traditional Systemic Treatment Options in Advanced Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer after Successful Cytoreduction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Simple Summary

Low-Grade Serous Ovarian cancer (LGSOC) is considered less sensitive to traditional chemotherapy than its high-grade counterpart. Guidelines are still inconsistent around the use and value of cytotoxic and antihormonal agents in the adjuvant setting. Traditional cytotoxic or antihormonal systemic treatment option is not associated with a significant OS or PFS benefit in this Meta-analysis.

Abstract

Objective: We performed a systematic literature review and a subsequent meta-analysis to compare traditional treatment options, i.e., antihormonal and cytotoxic, in LGSOC. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature review in MEDBASE and MEDLINE between September 2000 and June 2021 for women who received cytotoxic chemotherapy and/or antihormonal treatment after primary cytoreduction due to stage II–IV LGSOC and also at relapse. PFS and OS were calculated depending on the type of their adjuvant treatment. For each endpoint in the meta-analysis, pooled HR was calculated using the random effect model with the inverse variance weighted method. Only primary patients were included in the subsequent meta-analysis due to the small number of studies in the relapsed setting. Results: Five eligible first-line studies were included. Systemic chemotherapy failed to provide a significant OS benefit when compared to no systemic treatment (pooled HR = 1.01, 95% CI [0.79, 1.29]) after successful cytoreduction. Moreover, systemic chemotherapy followed by antihormonal treatment also did not result to a significant PFS or OS benefit when compared to systemic chemotherapy alone (for PSF: pooled HR = 0.59, 95% CI [0.33, 1.04]; for OS: pooled HR = 0.83, 95% CI [0.50, 1.39]). There were insufficient data from studies in the recurrent setting to allow their inclusion in the meta-analysis. Conclusions: In this meta-analysis, we failed to identify a traditional cytotoxic or antihormonal systemic treatment option that was associated with a significant OS or PFS benefit when administered following successful cytoreduction for advanced LGSOC. Prospective randomized studies are urgently warranted to define optimal adjuvant options in this challenging disease.

Promising Therapeutic Impact of a Selective Estrogen Receptor Downregulator, Fulvestrant, as Demonstrated In Vitro upon Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma Cell Lines

Few studies have reported hormonal agent use in the treatment of low-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (LGSOCs), which are chemoresistant. Considering the need for novel effective therapies, we investigated the hormone receptor expression and hormonal inhibition efficacy in LGSOCs. Using immunohistochemistry, we assessed the estrogen receptor (ER) expression status in 33 cases of histologically confirmed serous ovarian tumors, including 10, 11, and 12 cases of LGSOCs, serous borderline tumors (SBTs), and serous cystadenomas (SCAs), respectively. The genetic background reported in our previous study was used in the current study. MPSC1 cells, which were established from LGSOCs, were used in cell proliferation assays. We observed a higher ER expression in LGSOCs and SBTs than in SCAs (70%, 81%, and 50%, respectively). Thus, LGSOCs and SBTs exhibit higher ER expression than SCAs. Moreover, the PIK3CA mutation positively correlated with ER expression in LGSOCs (p = 0.0113). MPSC1 cells showed low ER expression on Western blotting. MPSC1 cell proliferation was significantly inhibited by fulvestrant (a selective ER downregulator). The activation of ER and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways may play an important role in LGSOC carcinogenesis. ER downregulation with fulvestrant or combination therapy with PI3K inhibitors is a possible novel treatment for patients with LGSOCs.

Metastasis prevention: targeting causes and roots

The spread of tumor cells from the primary focus, metastasis, is the main cause of cancer mortality. Therefore, anticancer therapy should be focused on the prevention of metastatic disease. Key targets can be conditions in the primary tumor that are favorable for the appearance of metastatic cells and the first steps of the metastatic cascade. Here, we discuss different approaches for targeting metastasis causes (hypoxia, metabolism changes, and tumor microenvironment) and roots (angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and invasion). Also, we emphasize the challenges of the existing approaches for metastasis prevention and suggest opportunities to overcome them. In conclusion, we highlight the importance of clinical evaluation of the agents showing antimetastatic effects in vivo, especially in patients with early-stage cancers, the identification of metastatic seeds, and the development of therapeutics for their eradication.

Development of Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma from Benign Ovarian Serous Cystadenoma Cells

Simple Summary

Low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (LGSOC) is thought to progress from benign cystadenoma in a stepwise fashion via serous borderline tumors (SBTs). This hypothesis is based on pathological and molecular evidence obtained following the genetic analysis of clinical samples from LGSOCs, SBTs, and cystadenomas. However, there have been no reports on the occurrence of LGSOCs following the introduction of oncogenes into benign serous cystadenoma cells. This study successfully developed an in vitro carcinogenic model of LGSOCs by introducing oncogenic KRAS and PIK3CA gene mutations in immortalized HOVs-cyst-1 cells from serous cystadenomas. The established mouse xenograft tumors resulting from the inoculation of HOVs-cyst-1 cells with KRAS and PIK3CA mutations exhibited the micropapillary invasive pattern of LGSOCs with low nuclear atypia without alveoli.

Abstract

Despite the knowledge about numerous genetic mutations essential for the progression of low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (LGSOC), the specific combination of mutations required remains unclear. Here, we aimed to recognize the oncogenic mutations responsible for the stepwise development of LGSOC using immortalized HOVs-cyst-1 cells, developed from ovarian serous cystadenoma cells, and immortalized via cyclin D1, CDK4^R24C, and hTERT gene transfection. Furthermore, oncogenic mutations, KRAS and PIK3CA, were individually and simultaneously introduced in immortalized HOV-cyst-1 cells. Cell functions were subsequently analyzed via in vitro assays. KRAS or PIK3CA double mutant HOV-cyst-1 cells exhibited higher cell proliferation and migration capacity than the wild-type cells, or those with either a KRAS or a PIK3CA mutation, indicating that these mutations play a causative role in LGSOC tumorigenesis. Moreover, KRAS and PIK3CA double mutants gained tumorigenic potential in nude mice, whereas the cells with a single mutant exhibited no signs of tumorigenicity. Furthermore, the transformation of HOV-cyst-1 cells with KRAS and PIK3CA mutants resulted in the development of tumors that were grossly and histologically similar to human LGSOCs. These findings suggest that simultaneous activation of the KRAS/ERK and PIK3CA/AKT signaling pathways is essential for LGSOC development.

Low-Grade Serous Carcinoma of the Ovary: The Current Status

Low-grade serous carcinoma (LGSC) of the ovary is a rare histological subtype of epithelial ovarian carcinoma. It has distinct clinical behavior and a specific molecular profile. Compared with high-grade serous carcinoma, this tumor presents at a younger age, has an indolent course, and is associated with prolonged survival. LGSC can arise de novo or originate following a serous borderline tumor (SBT). Pathological differentiation between LGSC and other ovarian carcinoma histological subtypes is fundamental. Several factors might influence the overall outcome, such as the age at diagnosis, current smoking, elevated body mass index, mutational status, hormonal receptors’ expression, and Ki-67 proliferation index. Surgery is the main treatment option in LGSC, and efforts must be maximized to achieve a microscopic residual in metastatic disease. Despite being relatively chemo-resistant, adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy remains the standard of care in LGSC. Hormonal maintenance therapy after adjuvant chemotherapy results in improved outcomes. Treatment options for disease recurrence include secondary cytoreductive surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and clinical trials. Advancements in genomic studies and targeted therapies are expected to change the treatment landscape in LGSC.

Trametinib versus standard of care in patients with recurrent low-grade serous ovarian cancer (GOG 281/LOGS): an international, randomised, open-label, multicentre, phase 2/3 trial

BACKGROUND

Low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary or peritoneum is characterised by MAPK pathway aberrations and its reduced sensitivity to chemotherapy relative to high-grade serous carcinoma. We compared the MEK inhibitor trametinib to physician's choice standard of care in patients with recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma.

METHODS

This international, randomised, open-label, multicentre, phase 2/3 trial was done at 84 hospitals in the USA and UK. Eligible patients were aged 18 years or older with recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma and measurable disease, as defined by Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors version 1.1, had received at least one platinum-based regimen, but not all five standard-of-care drugs, and had received an unlimited number of previous regimens. Patients with serous borderline tumours or tumours containing low-grade serous and high-grade serous carcinoma were excluded. Eligible patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either oral trametinib 2 mg once daily (trametinib group) or one of five standard-of-care treatment options (standard-of-care group): intravenous paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 by body surface area on days 1, 8, and 15 of every 28-day cycle; intravenous pegylated liposomal doxorubicin 40-50 mg/m2 by body surface area once every 4 weeks; intravenous topotecan 4 mg/m2 by body surface area on days 1, 8, and 15 of every 28-day cycle; oral letrozole 2·5 mg once daily; or oral tamoxifen 20 mg twice daily. Randomisation was stratified by geographical region (USA or UK), number of previous regimens (1, 2, or ≥3), performance status (0 or 1), and planned standard-of-care regimen. The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed progression-free survival while receiving randomised therapy, as assessed by imaging at baseline, once every 8 weeks for 15 months, and then once every 3 months thereafter, in the intention-to-treat population. Safety was assessed in patients who received at least one dose of study therapy. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02101788, and is active but not recruiting.

FINDINGS

Between Feb 27, 2014, and April 10, 2018, 260 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to the trametinib group (n=130) or the standard-of-care group (n=130). At the primary analysis, there were 217 progression-free survival events (101 [78%] in the trametinib group and 116 [89%] in the standard-of-care group). Median progression-free survival in the trametinib group was 13·0 months (95% CI 9·9-15·0) compared with 7·2 months (5·6-9·9) in the standard-of-care group (hazard ratio 0·48 [95% CI 0·36-0·64]; p<0·0001). The most frequent grade 3 or 4 adverse events in the trametinib group were skin rash (17 [13%] of 128), anaemia (16 [13%]), hypertension (15 [12%]), diarrhoea (13 [10%]), nausea (12 [9%]), and fatigue (ten [8%]). The most frequent grade 3 or 4 adverse events in the standard-of-care group were abdominal pain (22 [17%]), nausea (14 [11%]), anaemia (12 [10%]), and vomiting (ten [8%]). There were no treatment-related deaths.

INTERPRETATION

Trametinib represents a new standard-of-care option for patients with recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma.

FUNDING

NRG Oncology, Cancer Research UK, Target Ovarian Cancer, and Novartis.

The expression and clinical significance of ERβ/ERα in ovarian cancer: can we predict the effectiveness of platinum plus taxane therapy?

Estrogens play an extremely important role in regulating the proliferation of ovarian cancer. The estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) stimulates cell growth, whereas ERβ can be attributed to tumor suppressors. The study aims to assess the relationship between the expression of estrogen receptors in tumors and the efficacy of front-line platinum plus taxane chemotherapy in ovarian cancer patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ERα and ERβ tumor expression was evaluated quantitatively by flow cytometry in a narrowly defined group (31 patients): stage III high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC), suboptimal surgical cytoreduction, front-line platinum plus taxane chemotherapy (front-line, six cycles).

RESULTS

The median of progression-free survival (PFS) was 2 times greater (18 vs 8 months, p = 0.04) and the recurrence risk (HR) was 2.2 times (95 % CI: 1.1-6.2, p = 0.04) lower in the group with high (in more than 40% of the cells) vs low level of ERβ tumor expression. The statistically significant difference between PFS in the groups with high vs low tumor ERα expression was not revealed.

CONCLUSION

A high level of ERβ and not ERα expression can predict the efficacy of front-line platinum plus taxane chemotherapy in stage III HGSOC patients. The status of estrogen receptor beta can be considered as one of the possible predictors for evaluating the effectiveness of ovarian cancer therapy.

Cancer of the ovary, fallopian tube, and peritoneum: 2021 update

In 2014, FIGO's Committee for Gynecologic Oncology revised the staging of ovarian cancer, incorporating ovarian, fallopian tube, and peritoneal cancer into the same system. Most of these malignancies are high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSC). Stage IC is now divided into three categories: IC1 (surgical spill); IC2 (capsule ruptured before surgery or tumor on ovarian or fallopian tube surface); and IC3 (malignant cells in the ascites or peritoneal washings). The updated staging includes a revision of Stage IIIC based on spread to the retroperitoneal lymph nodes alone without intraperitoneal dissemination. This category is now subdivided into IIIA1(i) (metastasis ≤10 mm in greatest dimension), and IIIA1(ii) (metastasis >10 mm in greatest dimension). Stage IIIA2 is now "microscopic extrapelvic peritoneal involvement with or without positive retroperitoneal lymph node" metastasis. This review summarizes the genetics, surgical management, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies for epithelial cancers, and the treatment of ovarian germ cell and stromal malignancies.

Hormone therapy for ovarian cancer: Emphasis on mechanisms and applications (Review)

Ovarian cancer (OC) remains the leading cause of mortality due to gynecological malignancies. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that steroid hormones released from the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis can play a role in stimulating or inhibiting OC progression, with gonadotropins, estrogens and androgens promoting OC progression, while gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and progesterone may be protective factors in OC. Experimental studies have indicated that hormone receptors are expressed in OC cells and mediate the growth stimulatory or growth inhibitory effects of hormones on these cells. Hormone therapy agents have been evaluated in a number of clinical trials. The majority of these trials were conducted in patients with relapsed or refractory OC with average efficacy and limited side-effects. A better understanding of the mechanisms through which hormones affect cell growth may improve the efficacy of hormone therapy. In the present review article, the role of hormones (GnRH, gonadotropins, androgens, estrogens and progestins) and their receptors in OC tumorigenesis, and hormonal therapy in OC treatment is discussed and summarized.

Hormone maintenance therapy for women with low-grade serous ovarian cancer in the front-line setting: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC) is a rare form of ovarian cancer that accounts for 5-10% of epithelial ovarian cancers. LGSOCs are difficult to treat as they respond poorly to traditional chemotherapy treatments. This systematic review aims to appraise the literature describing the efficacy of hormone maintenance therapy (HMT) in patients with LGSOC given after cytoreductive surgery.

METHODS

Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched from inception to November 2020. No language restrictions were applied. Publications describing HMT in the primary setting following cytoreductive surgery with or without chemotherapy in women with LGSOC were included. Publications describing HMT in recurrence, non-LGSOC carcinomas, and in-vitro or animal studies were excluded along with case reports, case series, and conference proceedings. We summarized oncologic outcomes, HMT used, and hormone receptor status where reported. Studies were assessed for risk of bias and quality of evidence.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 14,799 records. Four cohort studies met eligibility criteria. A total of 558 patients were included, of which 127 were treated with HMT. There was significant heterogeneity between studies demonstrated by differences in HMT regimens used, dosing, and study population, leading to various outcomes following treatment with HMT.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of LGSOC remains a challenge. One retrospective study demonstrated improved progression-free survival following HMT for LGSOC, while two others failed to show significant improvements. However, there is limited data available in the literature which restricts the generalizability of these results. Therefore, well-designed, prospective, and randomized trials are needed to confirm the benefit of HMT in patients with this rare subgroup of ovarian cancer.

New insights in the pathology of peritoneal surface malignancy

Pathology is central to the management of peritoneal surface malignancy. This article highlights some recent advances that have had an impact on patient management or could do so in the near future. Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma, particularly the epithelioid subtype, is amenable to radical therapy in selected cases, and factors such as ki67 proliferation index, expression of BAP1 and mutation in CDKN2A show promise as prognostic indicators. Our understanding of multicystic mesothelioma has improved in recent years; it is a true neoplasm for which surgery may be indicated. Serous carcinomas involving the peritoneum are now known to originate from tubal epithelium. They are of two distinct types, high grade and low grade, which are now recognized as different neoplasms with distinctive features, oncogenesis and behavior. Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is an unusual condition that usually arises from an appendiceal mucinous neoplasm. Recent consensus in the classification and nomenclature of these lesions is discussed, including the distinction between low grade and high grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (HAMN), and the diagnostic criteria for appendiceal adenocarcinoma. PMP is divided into four prognostic groups: acellular mucin, low grade mucinous carcinoma peritonei, high grade mucinous carcinoma peritonei, and high grade mucinous carcinoma peritonei with signet ring cells. The pseudomyxoma microbiome is a promising area for clinical intervention but has been the subject of little research activity. Goblet cell adenocarcinoma (previously known as 'goblet cell carcinoid') is a distinctive type of appendiceal adenocarcinoma. Its behavior correlates with histologic features, but no general consensus for classification has been reached.

mRNA expression in low grade serous ovarian cancer: Results of a nanoString assay in a diverse population

OBJECTIVE

Mutations in the MAP kinase pathway (KRAS, NRAS, BRAF) are common in low grade serous ovarian carcinoma (LGSOC). The effect of these and other mutations on RNA transcription in this disease is poorly understood. Our objective was to describe patterns of somatic mutations and gene transcription in a racially diverse population with LGSOC.

METHODS

Utilizing an institutional tumor registry, patients with LGSOC were identified and charts were reviewed. RNA was extracted from available tumor tissue. Commercial tumor profiling results were analyzed with PanCancer pathway nanoString mRNA expression data. Along with nanoString n-Solver software, Chi-squared, Fishers Exact, and Cox proportional hazards models were used for statistical analysis, with significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

39 patients were identified-20% Black, 43% Hispanic, and 36% non-Hispanic White. 18 patients had commercial somatic DNA test results, and 23 had available tumor tissue for RNA extraction and nanoString analysis. The most common somatic alterations identified was KRAS (11 patients, 61%), followed by ERCC1 and TUBB3 (9 each, 50%). KRAS mutations were less common in smokers (14.3% vs 90.9%, p = 0.002). RNA expression analysis demonstrated a greater than two-fold decrease in expression of HRAS in tumors from older patients (p = 0.04), and a greater than two-fold decrease in the expression of HRAS in recurrent tumors (p = 0.007). No significant differences were seen in somatic testing results, RNA expression analysis, or progression free survival between different racial and ethnic cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Somatic deficiencies in ERCC1, TUBB3, and KRAS are common in LGSOC in a population of minority patients. HRAS demonstrates decreased expression in tumors from older patients and recurrent tumors.

Cost-effectiveness of maintenance hormonal therapy in patients with advanced low grade serous ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVES

To assess the cost-effectiveness of using maintenance hormonal therapy in patients with low grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSC).

METHODS

A simulated decision analysis with a Markov decision model over a lifetime horizon was performed using the base case of a 47-year old patient with stage IIIC, LGSC following first-line treatment with primary cytoreductive surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Two treatment strategies were analyzed - maintenance daily letrozole until disease progression and routine observation. The analysis was from the perspective of the healthcare payer. Direct medical costs were estimated using public data sources and previous literature and were reported in adjusted 2018 Canadian dollars. The model estimated lifetime cost, quality-adjusted life years (QALY), life years (LY), median overall survival (OS), and number of recurrences with each strategy. Cost-effectiveness was compared using an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). A strategy was considered cost-effective when the ICER was less than the willingness to pay (WTP) threshold of $50,000 CAD per QALY. Deterministic sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of changing key clinical and cost variables.

RESULTS

Maintenance letrozole was the preferred strategy with an associated lifetime cost of $69,985 CAD ($52,620 USD) and an observed improvement of 0.91 QALYs and 1.55 LYs. The ICER for letrozole maintenance therapy was an additional $11,037 CAD ($8298 USD) per QALY. The modeled median OS was 150 months with maintenance letrozole and 126 months in the observation strategy. The maintenance letrozole strategy resulted in 34% and 17% fewer first recurrences at 5-year and 10-year follow-up, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Maintenance letrozole is a cost-effective treatment strategy in patients with advanced LGSC resulting in clinically-relevant improvement in QALYs, LYs, and fewer disease recurrences.

The role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the management of low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary and peritoneum: Further evidence of relative chemoresistance

OBJECTIVE

Low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary/peritoneum (LGSC) is relatively chemoresistant in the adjuvant, neoadjuvant, and recurrent settings. We sought to expand our prior work and evaluate response rates of women with LGSC to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) compared to women with high-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary/peritoneum (HGSC).

METHODS

Thirty-six patients with LGSC who received NACT were matched to patients with HGSC. A single radiologist re-reviewed pre- and post-NACT imaging for response using RECIST 1.1. Pre- and post-NACT CA-125 values were compared using paired t-tests. Kaplan-Meier estimates of progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were performed.

RESULTS

All patients received neoadjuvant platinum-based regimens. LGSC patients received a median of 5 cycles (range 3-9), HGSC patients received a median of 4 cycles (range 3-9). Interval cytoreductive surgery was performed in 29/36 (81%) of LGSC and 32/36 (89%) HGSC patients. Complete cytoreduction was reported and achieved in 11/29 (38%) of LGSC patients and 24/32 (75%) of HGSC patients (p = 0.002). Median pre- and post-treatment CA-125 levels for LGSC patients were 295.5 U/mL and 144 U/mL (52% decrease) (p < 0.001). The median pre- and post-treatment CA-125 levels for HGSC patients were 767.5 and 35.6 (96% decrease) (p < 0.001). For LGSC patients, 4/36 (11%) had partial response (PR), 30/36 (83%) had stable disease (SD), and 2/36 (6%) had progressive disease (PD). In HGSC patients, 27/36 (75%) had PR, and 9/36 (25%) SD. Median PFS for LGSC patients was 18.5 months and median OS was 47.4 months.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides further evidence of relative chemoresistance of LGSC in patients treated with NACT.

Durable response to hormonal therapy in a patient with rapidly progressive low-grade serous ovarian cancer: A case report

This case report describes a 46-year-old patient with rapidly progressive stage IIIA1 estrogen receptor positive low grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSC). She was optimally debulked with no residual disease and received three cycles of adjuvant liposomal doxorubicin and carboplatin intravenous chemotherapy. CT scan and pelvic exam after her third cycle revealed a 5.7 cm nodular fixed left vaginal cuff mass involving the rectosigmoid consistent with rapidly progressive disease on chemotherapy. The decision was made to initiate letrozole, and she demonstrated a prolonged partial response for 34 months on hormonal therapy. The optimal management of newly diagnosed LGSC has yet to be determined. This unique case suggests that patients with newly diagnosed disease will not be compromised if treated with adjuvant hormonal monotherapy.

Rare ovarian tumours. Other treatments for ovarian cancer

AIM

The description of rare malignant ovarian tumours and the most suitable treatments. Alternative therapies different from intravenous chemotherapy are also explained.

METHODS

Literature review and ongoing trial information have been used to elaborate this guide.

RESULTS

Each ovarian cancer type must be identified and treated properly from diagnostic to surgery, adjuvant treatment and metastatic disease. Hormonotherapy can be useful as an alternative treatment, especially in low-grade ovarian cancer and endometrioid subtype. Tumour characterisation is appropriated for treatment selection when targeted therapy is indicated. MEK inhibitors, tyrosine-kinase inhibitors, EGFR inhibitors, therapies against integrins, antibody-drug conjugates and other strategies are described. Antiangiogenics, PARP inhibitors and immunotherapy are discussed in other parts of this publication.

CONCLUSION

Different ovarian cancer types must receive the appropriated treatment. Alternative therapies may be evaluated beyond the standard therapy, frequently in a clinical trial, and an individualised molecular study may help to find the best treatment.

Anti-cancer therapy and clinical trial considerations for gynecologic oncology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis

OBJECTIVES

The COVID-19 pandemic has consumed considerable resources and has impacted the delivery of cancer care. Patients with cancer may have factors which place them at high risk for COVID 19 morbidity or mortality. Highly immunosuppressive chemotherapy regimens and possible exposure to COVID-19 during treatment may put patients at additional risk. The Society of Gynecologic Oncology convened an expert panel to address recommendations for best practices during this crisis to minimize risk to patients from deviations in cancer care and from COVID-19 morbidity.

METHODS

An expert panel convened to develop initial consensus guidelines regarding anti-neoplastic therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic with respect to gynecologic cancer care and clinical trials.

RESULTS

COVID-19 poses special risks to patients who are older, have medical co-morbidities, and cancer. In addition, this pandemic will likely strain resources, making delivery of cancer care or conduct of clinical trials unpredictable. Recommendations are to limit visits and contact with health care facilities by using telemedicine when appropriate, and choosing regimens which require less frequent visits and which are less immunosuppressive. Deviations will occur in clinical trials as a result of limited resources, and it is important to understand regulatory obligations to trial sponsors as well as to the IRB to ensure that clinical trial and patient safety oversight are maintained.

CONCLUSIONS

The ongoing crisis will strain resources needed to deliver cancer care. When alterations to the delivery of care are mandated, efforts should be taken to minimize risks and maximize safety while approximating standard practice.

Estrogen Signaling and Its Potential as a Target for Therapy in Ovarian Cancer

The estrogen receptor (ER) has functionality in selected ovarian cancer subtypes and represents a potential target for therapy. The majority (>80%) of high grade serous, low grade serous and endometrioid carcinomas and many granulosa cell tumors express ER-alpha (ERα), and these tumor types have demonstrated responses to endocrine therapy (tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors) in multiple clinical studies. Biomarkers of responses to these drugs are actively being sought to help identify responsive cancers. Evidence for both pro-proliferative and pro-migratory roles for ERα has been obtained in model systems. ER-beta (ERβ) is generally considered to have a tumor suppressor role in ovarian cancer cells, being associated with the repression of cell growth and invasion. The differential expression of the specific ERβ isoforms may determine functionality within ovarian cancer cells. The more recently identified G protein-coupled receptor (GPER1; GPR30) has been shown to mediate both tumor-suppressive and tumor-promoting action in ovarian cancer cells, suggesting a more complex role. This review will summarize recent findings in this field.

Rare ovarian tumors: an update on diagnosis and treatment

Rare ovarian cancers occur frequently. Almost half of ovarian malignancies relate to several different 'rare' histotypes, according to the World Health Organization. The most common tumors are epithelial tumors, including high grade serous carcinomas, the presumed 'frequent ovarian cancers', together with low grade serous, mucinous, endometrioid, clear cell, and carcinosarcomas. Sex cord stromal tumors and germ cell carcinomas define two other groups of different subtypes, and small cell carcinomas are an independent high grade subtype closely related to the family of rhabdoid tumors. All of these cancers are primary ovarian cancers, classified by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. However, the tumor subtypes display various epidemiologic, clinical, pathological, prognostic, and therapeutic characteristics. Because of the scarcity of data, current understanding of each subtype is limited and treatment has generally been derived from the more common tumor types. The aim of this article is to review the current literature on rare ovarian malignancies.

Therapeutic Approach to Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma: State of Art and Perspectives of Clinical Research

Low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (LGSOC) is a distinct pathologic and clinical entity, characterized by less aggressive biological behavior, lower sensitivity to chemotherapy and longer survival compared with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma. LGSOC often harbors activating mutations of genes involved in mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Patients with disease confined to the gonad(s) should undergo bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, total hysterectomy and comprehensive surgical staging, although fertility-sparing surgery can be considered in selected cases. Women with stage IA-IB disease should undergo observation alone after surgery, whereas observation, chemotherapy or endocrine therapy are all possible options for those with stage IC-IIA disease. Patients with advanced disease should undergo primary debulking surgery with the aim of removing all macroscopically detectable disease, whereas neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval debuking surgery. After surgery, the patients can receive either carboplatin plus paclitaxel followed by endocrine therapy or endocrine therapy alone. Molecularly targeted agents, and especially MEK inhibitors and Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors, are currently under evaluation. Additional research on the genomics of LGSOC and clinical trials on the combination of MEK inhibitors with hormonal agents, other molecularly targeted agents or metformin, are strongly warranted to improve the prognosis of patients with this malignancy.

Disparities in care among patients with low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Low-grade serous carcinoma (LGSC) is a rare histotype of ovarian cancer with a unique disease course. Little data exist regarding the influence of sociodemographic factors on diagnosis and outcomes in this disease. Our objective was to evaluate the associations between these factors and the clinical characteristics, treatment approaches, and survival in LGSC.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried for data between 2004 and 2015 on patients with LGSC. LGSC was inclusive of invasive, grade 1, serous carcinoma of the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum. Patient demographics, insurance status, disease characteristics, treatment approach, and survival were evaluated. ANOVA, Chi Square, Kaplan-Meier, and Cox regression were used in the analysis.

RESULTS

3221 patients with LGSC were evaluated (89.5% White, 6.2% Black; 7.2% Hispanic, 92.8% non-Hispanic). Compared to Whites, Blacks were diagnosed younger (50.4 vs. 55.9 years, p < 0.01), received less chemotherapy (61.8% vs 67.0%, p = 0.04), and had less CA-125 elevation (OR 4.14 [1.26-13.57], p = 0.02). Compared to non-Hispanics, Hispanics were younger (49.5 vs. 55.8 years, p < 0.01) and received less chemotherapy (55% vs 67%, p < 0.001). In contrast to private insurance, government insurance was associated with a higher 30-day mortality (1.5% vs 0.01%, p < 0.001). Race/ethnicity were not predictive of OS, while older age (HR 1.013 [1.002-1.024], p = 0.03), advanced stage (HR 3.09 [2.15-4.43], p < 0.001), and government insurance (HR 2.33 [1.65-3.30], p < 0.001) were all independently associated with worse OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant differences exist in the clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of LGSC by sociodemographics, with Blacks and Hispanics being diagnosed younger and receiving less chemotherapy. Age, stage, and insurance status were predictive of overall survival.

Letrozole in the management of advanced ovarian cancer: an old drug as a new targeted therapy

At present, there is no standard of care on the use of letrozole in ovarian cancer management. We performed a systematic review of the available literature addressing this issue. Data demonstrated a role for letrozole in ovarian cancer, in both the primary and recurrent setting. Letrozole, which has a favorable toxicity profile, seems to assure a prolonged recurrence-free interval, particularly when used as maintenance treatment, in low grade serous ovarian cancer; in recurrent cases it had also led to prolonged disease control. However, the optimal setting and biologically relevant patient population needs to be defined in larger trials.

Low-grade Serous Tumors: Are We Making Progress?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review provides an overview of the current clinical standard in low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC). The available evidence for surgery and standard treatments is elaborated. In addition, we discuss recent findings and novel treatments for LGSOC.

RECENT FINDINGS

Two large multicenter trials studying MEK inhibitors in LGSOC have been presented in the last year. Binimetinib demonstrated an activity in LGSOC, especially in KRAS-mutated disease. Trametinib was associated with an improved progression-free survival in relapsed LGSOC. Based on the current results, MEK inhibitors could be an alternative treatment for LGSOC. Surgery is an important step in the treatment of LGSOC. Hormonal therapy and bevacizumab can be beneficial, next to chemotherapy. Targeted treatments, such as the MEK-inhibitor trametinib, seem to be efficient and should be introduced into clinical practice.

Low-grade serous ovarian cancer: State of the science

In January 2019, a group of basic, translational, and clinical investigators and patient advocates assembled in Miami, Florida, to discuss the current state of the science of low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary or peritoneum-a rare ovarian cancer subtype that may arise de novo or following a diagnosis of serous borderline tumor. The purpose of the conference was to review current knowledge, discuss ongoing research by established researchers, and frame critical questions or issues for future directions. Following presentations and discussions, the primary objective was to initiate future collaborations, uniform database platforms, laboratory studies, and clinical trials to better understand this disease and to advance clinical care outside the boundaries of single academic institutions. This review summarizes the state of the science in five principal categories: epidemiology and patient outcomes, pathology, translational research, patient care and clinical trials, and patients' perspective.