A phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled study of chemo-immunotherapy combination using motolimod with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in recurrent or persistent ovarian cancer: a Gynecologic Oncology Group partners study

BACKGROUND

A phase 2, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in women with recurrent epithelial ovarian carcinoma to evaluate the efficacy and safety of motolimod-a Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) agonist that stimulates robust innate immune responses-combined with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD), a chemotherapeutic that induces immunogenic cell death.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Women with ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal carcinoma were randomized 1 : 1 to receive PLD in combination with blinded motolimod or placebo. Randomization was stratified by platinum-free interval (≤6 versus >6-12 months) and Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) performance status (0 versus 1). Treatment cycles were repeated every 28 days until disease progression.

RESULTS

The addition of motolimod to PLD did not significantly improve overall survival (OS; log rank one-sided P = 0.923, HR = 1.22) or progression-free survival (PFS; log rank one-sided P = 0.943, HR = 1.21). The combination was well tolerated, with no synergistic or unexpected serious toxicity. Most patients experienced adverse events of fatigue, anemia, nausea, decreased white blood cells, and constipation. In pre-specified subgroup analyses, motolimod-treated patients who experienced injection site reactions (ISR) had a lower risk of death compared with those who did not experience ISR. Additionally, pre-treatment in vitro responses of immune biomarkers to TLR8 stimulation predicted OS outcomes in patients receiving motolimod on study. Immune score (tumor infiltrating lymphocytes; TIL), TLR8 single-nucleotide polymorphisms, mutational status in BRCA and other DNA repair genes, and autoantibody biomarkers did not correlate with OS or PFS.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of motolimod to PLD did not improve clinical outcomes compared with placebo. However, subset analyses identified statistically significant differences in the OS of motolimod-treated patients on the basis of ISR and in vitro immune responses. Collectively, these data may provide important clues for identifying patients for treatment with immunomodulatory agents in novel combinations and/or delivery approaches.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT 01666444.

A phase II evaluation of motesanib (AMG 706) in the treatment of persistent or recurrent ovarian, fallopian tube and primary peritoneal carcinomas: a Gynecologic Oncology Group study

OBJECTIVES

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) and their receptors have a critical role in stimulating the growth of ovarian cancer cells. Motesanib is a small molecule inhibitor of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases including VEGF receptors 1-3, as well as c-KIT and platelet-derived growth factor which are related to the VEGF family.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-two eligible patients with recurrent ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal carcinoma were treated with an oral daily dose of 125 mg of motesanib. Peripheral blood was analyzed for circulating tumor cells (CTC) and circulating endothelial cells/circulating endothelial progenitors (CEC/CEP), VEGF levels and cell-free circulating DNA (cfDNA).

RESULTS

The study was abruptly halted after four patients developed posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. One patient had a partial response and seven patients had stable disease at the time they were removed from study treatment. Twelve of the 22 patients (50%) had indeterminate responses at trial closure. Early closure without clinical efficacy data precludes meaningful correlative studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The serious central nervous system toxicity observed in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer precluded full examination of this agent in this population. There were no clear cut explanations for the high incidence of this known class effect in the study population compared with patients with other cancers.

Borderline ovarian tumours: clinical analysis of 38 cases

Thirty-eight patients with ovarian tumours of low malignant potential (borderline) were diagnosed and treated in Tehran University Gynecology Oncology Department from 1991 to 2002, and have been reviewed. In this study age, clinical behavior, symptoms, surgical stage, type of tumour, surgery, adjuvant treatment, survival and recurrences were evaluated. A retrospective chart review was performed on these 38 patients who were treated for histopathologically confirmed tumours of low malignant potential between 1991-2002. The mean age was 34.4 years, range (14-83) (SD: 18.33). Post surgical FIGO staging was: Stage I=93.75%, stage III 6.25%. Histologic subtypes were: Serous 76.31% (29 patients), Mucinous 21.05% (8 patients), Mixed types 2.63% (1 patient). Mean pre-operative CA125 value was 114.90 (SD: +/- 90.30). Thirty-three percent of patients had only a simple cyst in ultrasonography. Conservative surgery was performed in 76.32% (29 patients). More radical surgery (TAH + BSO) was performed in 9 patients (23.68%). There were 6 recurrences. Three patients with recurrence and invasive implants received chemotherapy and secondary surgery was performed. Survival rate was 100% at 3 years for all stages and 89% at 5 years. One patient died of recurrent disease at 48 months after initial diagnosis. Our data suggest that LMP tumours are most frequently diagnosed in stage I. Most common histological type was serous, and 5 of the recurrences of (6 patients) were initially diagnosed at stage I, and had been treated with conservative surgery with no adjuvant therapy.

A phase II evaluation of paclitaxel and carboplatin in the treatment of carcinosarcoma of the uterus: A Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) study

5515

Background: Both platinum and taxane compounds have demonstrated activity in uterine carcinosarcoma (malignant mixed Mullerian tumor). Ifosfamide plus paclitaxel is the regimen supported by randomized phase III trials through the GOG. However, the toxicity, multi-day schedule, and limited activity of this regimen indicate that development of other regimens is still needed. The primary aims of this prospective study were to estimate the antitumor activity and toxicity of paclitaxel plus carboplatin in patients with uterine carcinosarcomas. Methods: Eligible patients had advanced stage (III or IV), persistent, or recurrent measurable disease with histologic confirmation of the primary tumor, no prior chemotherapy, and a GOG Performance Status of 2 or better. At entry hematologic and all other labs were within pre-defined limits. Patients received the combination of paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 IV over 3 hours plus carboplatin (AUC 6) IV over 30 minutes every 3 weeks until disease progression or adverse effects prohibit further therapy. The primary endpoint of confirmed response was assessed by RECIST criteria. CTCAE v3 was used to grade adverse events. This study used an optimal but flexible two-stage design with early stopping guidelines intended to limit patient accrual to inactive treatments. Forty to 47 eligible patients were targeted for accrual. Central pathology review (CPR) is still pending for 5 patients. Results: Fifty-five patients were entered on study with 9 being excluded from analysis; 7 with unconfirmed diagnosis at CPR and 2 were never treated. Treatment was generally tolerated with expected hematologic toxicity and minimal non-hematologic grade 4 toxicity (1 cardiovascular and 2 pain) with 59% of patients completing 6 or more cycles of chemotherapy. The proportion of patients with confirmed complete and partial responses were 11% and 41%, respectively (52%; 95% CI 37%-67%). Additionally 4% experienced an unconfirmed response and 26% had stable disease. Conclusions: Paclitaxel plus carboplatin demonstrates anti-tumor activity against uterine carcinosarcoma with acceptable toxicity and warrants further evaluation in phase III randomized trials.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A phase II evaluation of bevacizumab in the treatment of recurrent or persistent endometrial cancer: A Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) Study

5531

Background: Bevacizumab (BV) is a recombinant, humanized monoclonal antibody directed against vascular endothelial growth factor, has demonstrated clinical benefit in multiple tumor types. This is the first report of the activity of bevacizumab in patients with recurrent or persistent endometrial cancer (EMC). Methods: Eligible patients had persistent or recurrent EMC after receiving 1–2 prior cytotoxic regimens, measurable disease, and GOG performance status < 2. Treatment consisted of BV 15 mg/kg IV q 3 weeks until disease progression or prohibitive toxicity. Primary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) at 6 months, objective response rate, and toxicity by NCI CTCAE v3.0. The clinical trial was carried out in a flexible 2-stage group sequential design intended to detect either cytostatic or cytotoxic activity. Sample sizes were targeted to limit the probability of designating ineffective regimens as being active 10% with at least 90% statistical power. Clinically significant improvements were 20% increases in the proportion responding or surviving progression-free at 6 months over historical controls. Results: From March 2006 to January 2008, 56 patients were enrolled. Two were excluded due to a second primary and one due to inadequate pathology; thus, the sample included 53 patients. Median age was 62 (range 44–84) years, and prior treatment consisted of 1 or 2 regimens in 33 and 20 patients, respectively. Twenty-eight patients (52.8%) had prior radiation. Early results showed 8/53 (15.1%) response rate, with 1 complete response and 7 partial responses; and 19/53 (35.8%) of patients progression free at 6 months with 2 patients pending at the time of data analysis. Median PFS was 4.2 months. Median Overall survival (OS) was 10.5 months. The following grade 3 or 4 toxicities were observed: anemia (1 grade 3), cardiovascular (4 grade 3), constitutional (2 grade 3), hemorrhage (1 grade 3), hepatic (1 grade 3), musculoskeletal (2 grade 3), metabolic (1 grade 3, 1 grade 4), neurologic (1 grade 3), pain (4 grade 3), and vascular (1 grade 3, 1 grade 4). Conclusions: BV appears to have single agent activity in women with recurrent or persistent EMC and warrants further investigation.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II study of topotecan and carboplatin in the treatment of platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian and peritoneal cancer

15001

Background: The aim of this trial was to investigate the efficacy and toxicity of the combination of Topotecan (T) and Carboplatinum (C) in the management of recurrent platinum sensitive ovarian and peritoneal cancer. Methods: T (1 mg/m2) was given as a 30-minute infusion daily × 3 days and C (AUC 5) was given as a 30-minute infusion following T on day 3 on a 21-day cycle. Results: Thirty patients (pts) were enrolled and all pts were evaluable for response and toxicity. Mean age was 63.2 (range = 44–84). One hundred eighty five cycles (mean/pt = 6, range 2–10) were evaluable for toxicity. Dose escalation (T = 1.25 mg/m2) was possible in 25 (83.3%) pts. Hematologic toxicity grade 3 and 4 neutropenia was seen in 60 (32.4%) and 10 (5.4%) cycles, respectively. Grade 3 thrombocytopenia was encountered in 24 (13%) cycles. Grade 3 Hgb was observed in 4 (2.2%) cycles. No grade 4 thrombocytopenia/Hgb or neutropenic fever was encountered. Blood transfusions were required in 9 (4.9%) cycles. Bone marrow support with erythropoiten (40% pts), and filgrastim (43.3% pts) were utilized. No neuropathy > grade 1 was encountered. Fourteen pts (46.6%) pts had a hypersensitivity reaction to C and successful desensitization was carried out in 8 (57.1%). Mean follow-up interval was 16.9 months (mos) (Range 1.7–43). To date, 6 (20%) pts are alive without disease, 16 (53.3%) are alive with disease, and 8 (26.7) have died of disease. The overall response rate was 83.3% (5 CR and 20 PR). Five (16.6%) pts had SD. Median progression-free interval was 8.2 mos. Overall mean survival for the cohort was 31.2 mos (95% CI: 24.47–37.71). Conclusions: Given the ICON-4 data, supporting combination therapy in recurrent platinum-sensitive patients, this regimen provides an effective and tolerable alternative to Taxane-platinum combination with no significant neuropathy. This regimen is especially attractive in patients who have significant residual neuropathy after initial treatment. Carboplatinum desensitization was feasible in previously pre-treated patients.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A phase II study of docetaxel and gemcitabine in the treatment of recurrent ovarian, peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancer

15006

Background: The aim of this trial was to investigate the efficacy and toxicity of weekly combination of docetaxel (D) and gemcitabine (G) in the management of recurrent ovarian, peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer. Methods: D (30 mg/m2) was given as a one-hour IV infusion followed by G (650 mg/m2) as a 30 minute IV infusion on Day 1, 8 & 15 of a 28-day cycle. Results: Thirty pts were enrolled. Mean age was 67.4 (range 47–85). Twelve (40%) pts had Platinum sensitive disease, and 18 (60%) had Platinum resistant disease. One hundred eighteen cycles were evaluable for toxicity. The mean number of cycles was 4 (range 1–7). Twenty-six (22%) of the cycles were incomplete due to toxicity (day # 15 not given in 25 of the incomplete cycles). Dose delay was observed in 4 (13.3%) pts, and a one-dose level reduction was required in 11 (36.7%) pts. Hematologic toxicity included grade 3 neutropenia in 13 (11%) cycles, grade 3 thrombocytopenia in 11 (9.3%) cycles. No grade 4 neutropenia, thrombocytopenia or neutropenic fever was encountered. Bone marrow support with erythropoiten (36.6% pts), and filgrastim (13.3% pts) were utilized. Blood transfusions were given in 10 (8.5%) cycles. Elevated LFT grade 1/2 was seen in 7 (23.3%) pts and 3 (10%) pts, respectively. Nonhematologic grade 3 toxicites occurred in 4 pts (including one seizure). Mean follow-up interval was 19.6 months (mos) (range 1–36.6). To date, 14 (46.6%) pts are alive with disease, and 16 (53.4%) have died of disease. The overall response rate was 32% (1 CR and 8 PR in 28 evaluable pts). Ten pts (33.3%) had SD and 5 had ID. Median progression-free interval (PFI) was 3.8 mos (95% CI: 1.65–5.97). Overall survival was 19.6 mos (95% CI: 14.23–24.96), and no significant differences in PFI and survival between the Platinum-sensitive and resistant pts (P = 0.5, P = 0.08, respectively). Conclusions: Weekly docetaxel plus gemcitabine is an active and tolerable regimen with minimal toxicity in this older population of pts (9 ≥ 80 years of age). No significant difference in response between Platinum sensitive and resistant pts was observed. Overall response rate appears to be better than single agent regimens currently available. Elimination of the third week of treatment may not affect efficacy and will be more acceptable to pts with less toxicity.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Successful treatment of two patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasm presenting with emergent neurologic symptoms

The objective of this study is to present the successful treatment of two young patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasms (GTN) presenting with emergent neurologic symptoms without any gynecological problems. Case 1, a 22-year-old patient, was admitted to an infectious disease ward, with admitting diagnosis of encephalitis due to neurologic symptoms. Case 2, a 33-year-old patient, underwent craniotomy due to hemorrhagic brain tumor in the neurosurgery department. The diagnosis of GTN should be considered in any woman of reproductive age who has neurologic symptoms. It seems that multiagent chemotherapy in conjunction with whole-brain irradiation results in acceptable survival rate in brain metastatic GTN patients. Craniotomy is often necessary in fulminant cases.

Evaluation and management of brain metastatic patients with high-risk gestational trophoblastic tumors

A retrospective study to evaluate the characteristics of brain metastatic patients with gestational trophoblastic tumors (GTT) and to analyze the results of treatment has been performed. During 1996-2001, 40 patients with metastatic GTT were diagnosed at Vali-e-Asr Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Of them, nine with brain metastases, which were documented with the help of computed tomography scan, were evaluated retrospectively. Eight patients received EMA-EP regimen (etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin, etoposide, and cisplatinum) and one received EMA-CO (etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin, cyclophosphamide, and vincristin). All cases received whole brain irradiation therapy concurrently. The median age of the patients at diagnosis was 30 years (range: 17-53). Six of them were of early group (five with symptoms of central nervous system and one was detected during workup) and three were of late group (relapsed group). Five (56%) patients responded to treatment and four (44%) were deceased (three of them belonged to late group). It seems that multi-agent chemotherapy (EMA-EP) concurrently with whole brain irradiation results in acceptable survival rates in GTT patients with brain metastases.

EMA-EP regimen, as firstline multiple agent chemotherapy in high-risk GTT patients (stage II-IV)

Multiple agent chemotherapy in high-risk metastatic gestational trophoblastic tumor patients is a problem for any medical team. In this study, EMA-EP chemotherapy (etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin, and cisplatinum) was evaluated as firstline chemotherapy to manage high-risk GTT metastatic patients. Seventeen high-risk metastatic patients, including 14 without and 3 with brain metastasis, who were candidates to firstline multiple agent chemotherapy between April 2000 and March 2003 in Vali-e-Asr hospital took part in a prospective study under EMA-EP regimen. EMA-EP was prescribed in two periods: EMA in two consecutive days in week 1 and EP in 1 day in the following week with a week interval between these two (each cycle was repeated every 2 weeks). In brain metastasis group, patients got high-dose medication (methotrexate) together with brain radiotherapy. Remission, toxicity, full dose tolerance, and recurrences of patients were evaluated. Median age of patients was 30 (15-49), and they received 100 courses of chemotherapy including 75 low-dose courses and 25 high-dose courses. 71% of courses were done in full dosage (83% in low dose and 36% in high dose). The most common cause for dosage reduction was leukopenia. Two patients did not complete the regimen, one due to hypersensitivity and the other due to fever and leukopenia leading to death. All others, who received complete courses, achieved remission. In the group without brain metastasis, one case of recurrence was observed. Grade 3 anemia, grade 3 and 4 leukopenia, and grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia were observed in 3, 12, and 3% of patients, respectively. In current study, EMA-EP regimen in patients with high-risk metastatic GTN patients (with or without brain metastasis) lead to remission in all patients who completed the treatment courses.

Evaluation and management of brain metastatic patients with high-risk gestational trophoblastic tumors

A retrospective study to evaluate the characteristics of brain metastatic patients with gestational trophoblastic tumors (GTT) and to analyze the results of treatment has been performed. During 1996–2001, 40 patients with metastatic GTT were diagnosed at Vali-e-Asr Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Of them, nine with brain metastases, which were documented with the help of computed tomography scan, were evaluated retrospectively. Eight patients received EMA-EP regimen (etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin, etoposide, and cisplatinum) and one received EMA-CO (etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin, cyclophosphamide, and vincristin). All cases received whole brain irradiation therapy concurrently. The median age of the patients at diagnosis was 30 years (range: 17–53). Six of them were of early group (five with symptoms of central nervous system and one was detected during workup) and three were of late group (relapsed group). Five (56%) patients responded to treatment and four (44%) were deceased (three of them belonged to late group). It seems that multi-agent chemotherapy (EMA-EP) concurrently with whole brain irradiation results in acceptable survival rates in GTT patients with brain metastases.

EMA-EP regimen, as firstline multiple agent chemotherapy in high-risk GTT patients (stage II–IV)

Multiple agent chemotherapy in high-risk metastatic gestational trophoblastic tumor patients is a problem for any medical team. In this study, EMA-EP chemotherapy (etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin, and cisplatinum) was evaluated as firstline chemotherapy to manage high-risk GTT metastatic patients. Seventeen high-risk metastatic patients, including 14 without and 3 with brain metastasis, who were candidates to firstline multiple agent chemotherapy between April 2000 and March 2003 in Vali-e-Asr hospital took part in a prospective study under EMA-EP regimen. EMA-EP was prescribed in two periods: EMA in two consecutive days in week 1 and EP in 1 day in the following week with a week interval between these two (each cycle was repeated every 2 weeks). In brain metastasis group, patients got high-dose medication (methotrexate) together with brain radiotherapy. Remission, toxicity, full dose tolerance, and recurrences of patients were evaluated. Median age of patients was 30 (15–49), and they received 100 courses of chemotherapy including 75 low-dose courses and 25 high-dose courses. 71% of courses were done in full dosage (83% in low dose and 36% in high dose). The most common cause for dosage reduction was leukopenia. Two patients did not complete the regimen, one due to hypersensitivity and the other due to fever and leukopenia leading to death. All others, who received complete courses, achieved remission. In the group without brain metastasis, one case of recurrence was observed. Grade 3 anemia, grade 3 and 4 leukopenia, and grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia were observed in 3, 12, and 3% of patients, respectively. In current study, EMA-EP regimen in patients with high-risk metastatic GTN patients (with or without brain metastasis) lead to remission in all patients who completed the treatment courses.

Simple hysterectomy in the presence of invasive cervical cancer in Iran

The objective of this study was to determine the reasons leading to an inappropriate simple hysterectomy in the presence of invasive cervical cancer. During 1997-2001, 62 cases of invasive cervical carcinoma that had been treated by simple hysterectomy were referred to the gynecology oncology service in Vali-e-Asr hospital, Tehran, Iran. Five had microinvasive carcinoma. The remaining 57 women had either adenocarcinomas or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Medical records were reviewed retrospectively to determine the reasons for inappropriate hysterectomy. Reasons for inappropriate hysterectomy were as follow: lack of preoperative Pap smear (P/S) (29%), deliberate hysterectomy for biopsy-proven cancer (25.8%), negative P/S (6.5%), inadequate evaluation of abnormal P/S (6.5%), failure to perform an indicated conization (3.2%), and emergent operation because of uterine perforation (1.6%). Reasons for inappropriate hysterectomy in the remainder of patients (27.4%) were not found because of lack of sufficient information. Although 45.2% of these patients had complained for vaginal bleeding, only four of them had preoperative endocervical and endometrial sampling. Despite the increasing emphasis on performing cervical cancer screening before hysterectomy, only 18 (29%) referral patients had preoperative P/S. We conclude that by close adherence to the cervical cancer screening guidelines and appropriate evaluation of the presenting symptoms, we may avoid inappropriate management of cervical carcinomas with simple hysterectomy. Many cases of simple hysterectomy in the presence of biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix necessitates some reconsideration of gynecology oncology postgraduate courses for general gynecologists.

Simple hysterectomy in the presence of invasive cervical cancer in Iran

The objective of this study was to determine the reasons leading to an inappropriate simple hysterectomy in the presence of invasive cervical cancer. During 1997–2001, 62 cases of invasive cervical carcinoma that had been treated by simple hysterectomy were referred to the gynecology oncology service in Vali-e-Asr hospital, Tehran, Iran. Five had microinvasive carcinoma. The remaining 57 women had either adenocarcinomas or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Medical records were reviewed retrospectively to determine the reasons for inappropriate hysterectomy. Reasons for inappropriate hysterectomy were as follow: lack of preoperative Pap smear (P/S) (29%), deliberate hysterectomy for biopsy-proven cancer (25.8%), negative P/S (6.5%), inadequate evaluation of abnormal P/S (6.5%), failure to perform an indicated conization (3.2%), and emergent operation because of uterine perforation (1.6%). Reasons for inappropriate hysterectomy in the remainder of patients (27.4%) were not found because of lack of sufficient information. Although 45.2% of these patients had complained for vaginal bleeding, only four of them had preoperative endocervical and endometrial sampling. Despite the increasing emphasis on performing cervical cancer screening before hysterectomy, only 18 (29%) referral patients had preoperative P/S. We conclude that by close adherence to the cervical cancer screening guidelines and appropriate evaluation of the presenting symptoms, we may avoid inappropriate management of cervical carcinomas with simple hysterectomy. Many cases of simple hysterectomy in the presence of biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix necessitates some reconsideration of gynecology oncology postgraduate courses for general gynecologists.

Uterine papillary serous carcinoma after pelvic radiation therapy for cancer of the cervix

The carcinogenic effect of ionising radiation in humans has well documented in both atomic bomb survivors and patients exposed to therapeutic radiation. Patients irradiated for cancer of cervix have frequently been studied for the later development of secondary malignancies because treatment is relatively successful and many patients survive long enough to be at risk for late complications of radiotherapy. Most investigations have revealed an increased incidence of uterine sarcoma following pelvic radiation therapy for a variety of gynecologic disorders (Norris and Taylor, 1965; Fehr and Prem, 1974). Wagoner, in a review of over 1800 women treated with ionising radiation for invasive cervical cancer, reported a fourfold increase in risk for the later development of uterine sarcoma (Wagoner, 1984). In this paper we report the case of uterine papillary serous carcinoma 16 years after pelvic X-ray therapy for cervical cancer.

BRCA1 germline mutations and polymorphisms in a clinic-based series of ovarian cancer cases: a Gynecologic Oncology Group study

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of BRCA1 gene alterations in an unselected, clinic-based series of ovarian cancer cases; to evaluate the usefulness of family history in predicting the likelihood of a disease-causing mutation; and to document the occurrence of polymorphic variants in BRCA1 and to determine their distribution among families accordingly to history of breast and/or ovarian cancer.

METHOD

Two hundred fifty-eight women with primary epithelial ovarian cancer, entered onto a nonclinical protocol of the Gynecologic Oncology Group, were analyzed for BRCA1 germline alterations by single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis.

RESULTS

Protein-truncating mutations in BRCA1 were identified in 12 patients (4.6%). The median age of cancer diagnosis in BRCA1 mutation carriers was 47 years compared to 57 years in patients without mutations (P = 0.02). All but 1 of the patients with BRCA1 mutations reported a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer and 8 had a first-degree relative with cancer. Twelve mutations of unknown significance were also identified. An association was also noted between the presence of common polymorphisms in BRCA1 and family history of cancer. Polymorphisms were present at higher frequency among women without a family history of cancer compared to women with positive family histories, suggesting they are associated with reduced risk.

CONCLUSION

In a clinic-based series of ovarian cancer patients, germline BRCA1 mutations were detected in 12 of 258 (4.6%) patients. A strong correlation was noted between the presence of mutations and family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer, indicating that these women are most likely to benefit from genetic susceptibility testing.

Oral topotecan as single-agent second-line chemotherapy in patients with advanced ovarian cancer

PURPOSE

To evaluate oral topotecan as single-agent, second-line therapy in patients with ovarian cancer previously treated with a platinum-based regimen.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients (N = 116) received oral topotecan 2.3 mg/m2 daily for 5 days every 21 days. Eligibility criteria included histologic diagnosis of International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage III or IV epithelial ovarian cancer, bidimensionally measurable disease, prior platinum-containing chemotherapy, age > or = 18 years, performance status < or = 2, and life expectancy > or = 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Overall response rate was 21.6% (25 of 116 patients). Median duration of response was 25.0 weeks; median time to response was 8.4 weeks. Median time to progression was 14.1 weeks; median survival was 62.2 weeks. Grade 4 neutropenia was experienced by 50.4% of patients in 13.4% of courses administered. Grade 4 thrombocytopenia was experienced by 22.1% of patients in 5.1% of courses. Grade 3 or 4 anemia was experienced by 29.2% of patients in 8.5% of courses. Most frequent nonhematologic toxicities were predominantly (> 90%) grade 1 or 2 and included nausea, alopecia, diarrhea, and vomiting.

CONCLUSION

Second-line oral topotecan administered at 2.3 mg/m2 for 5 days every 21 days demonstrated activity in patients with progressive or recurrent ovarian cancer after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy. This activity was comparable to that seen in previous studies with intravenous topotecan. Grade 4 neutropenia was less frequent with oral topotecan than previously reported for intravenous topotecan. Oral topotecan is an active, tolerable, and convenient formulation of an established agent for the second-line treatment of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer and may also facilitate exploring prolonged treatment schedules.

To peritonealise or not to peritonealise? A randomised trial at abdominal hysterectomy in Iran

We conducted a trial to determine whether non-closure of the visceral and parietal peritoneum alters the intraoperative or post-operative course at abdominal hysterectomy. This was a parallel-group double-blind randomised controlled trial was performed on 66 women who underwent abdominal hysterectomy with or without salpingo-oophorectomy. Twenty-seven were allocated to the control 'closed' group and 39 women to the study 'open' group. The main outcome measures were operative time, estimated blood loss, postoperative pain assessed by visual analogue scale and amount of postoperative analgesia. The study was conducted in the Department of Gynecological Oncology in a university teaching hospital. The operative time was shorter (P < 0.05) and the time to ambulation without assistance was significantly shorter in study group. There were no difference in postoperative pain, blood loss, amount of postoperative analgesia and antibiotics in the two groups. Peritoneal closure at abdominal hysterectomy provides no immediate postoperative benefits while unnecessarily lengthening surgical time and anaesthesia exposure. We suggest that the traditional practice of visceral and parietal closure be abolished at abdominal hysterectomy.

Topotecan in squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix: A Phase II study of the Gynecologic Oncology Group

PURPOSE

The activity and toxicity of topotecan were evaluated in a multicenter Phase II study for patients with previously treated squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Histologic confirmation of the primary diagnosis was required, as well as adequate performance status and vital organ function and the presence of measurable disease. Patients were allowed one prior regimen of systemic therapy, usually platinum-based. A two-stage accrual design was utilized with early stopping criteria and monitoring of toxicity. Topotecan was administered at 1.5 mg/m(2) per day for 5 consecutive days on a 21-day cycle with modifications based on hematologic toxicity.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients were entered. Two patients were ineligible (incorrect tumor type) and 2 were inevaluable (never received therapy). One additional patient was not evaluable for response (nonmeasurable disease). A median of 2 cycles was administered to each patient (range: 1-17 cycles) with grade 4 neutropenia in 68% and grade 4 thrombocytopenia in 39% of patients, but without treatment-related deaths. Nonhematologic toxicity was generally mild and not dose-limiting. The overall (complete and partial) response rate among evaluable patients with measurable disease was 12.5% with stable disease in an additional 37. 5%. Median progression-free survival was 2.1 months.

CONCLUSIONS

As a single agent topotecan shows modest antitumor activity, with manageable hematologic and nonhematologic toxicity, in patients with previously treated squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix. Further evaluation in chemotherapy-naive patients or in combination with cisplatin and/or radiation may be indicated.

Phase II evaluation of 24-h continuous infusion topotecan in recurrent, potentially platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer: A Gynecologic Oncology Group study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to develop an alternative effective and more convenient administration schedule for intravenous topotecan when used as palliative treatment in ovarian cancer.

METHODS

The Gynecologic Oncology Group conducted a Phase II trial of 24-h infusional topotecan (8.5 mg/m(2)) with treatment repeated every 3 weeks in 29 patients with platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer (prior response to platinum-based chemotherapy with a minimum treatment-free interval >/=6 months).

RESULTS

The major toxicities of therapy were grade 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia which developed in 86 and 14% of patients, respectively. Other severe side effects were uncommon. Only 2 partial responses (7%) were observed in the 28 patients evaluable for response.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the relatively favorable ovarian cancer patient population treated in this trial (platinum-sensitive recurrent disease), the response rate was disappointingly low. Considering the three- to fivefold higher objective response rates observed in other trials employing topotecan in individuals with platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer utilizing a 5-day treatment program (delivered every 3 weeks), the results of the current study provide strong support for the conclusion that clinically relevant antineoplastic activity of this agent is highly schedule dependent.

Intraperitoneal alpha-interferon alternating with cisplatin in residual ovarian carcinoma: a phase II Gynecologic Oncology Group study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to study the combination of intraperitoneal alpha-interferon and cisplatin administered second-line in an alternating sequence in small volume residual epithelial ovarian cancer after second-look surgery and the activity of this combination based on prior response to first-line platinum compounds.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with minimal residual (<0.5 cm) epithelial ovarian cancer at reassessment laparotomy were entered into a multicenter trial of intraperitoneal alpha-interferon alternating with cisplatin given for eight cycles unless disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurred. The patients were considered favorable if they were platinum-sensitive and/or relapsed 6 months or longer after completing treatment. Another reassessment laparotomy was performed within 12 weeks of completion of treatment in patients who were in clinical remission.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients were clinically evaluable and 18 were surgically reassessed, 5 of whom had a negative reassessment operation (20% complete response and 8% partial response). Of the 54 patients evaluable for toxicity, the most common adverse effects of more than grade 2 were gastrointestinal in 13 (47%), neutropenia in 9 (17%), and leukopenia in 6 (12%). Grade 4 toxicity was seen in 10 instances: 4 gastrointestinal, 2 neutropenia, 2 thrombocytopenia, 1 wound infection, and 1 allergic reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

alpha-Interferon and cisplatin are active agents in favorable patients with minimal residual epithelial ovarian cancer at second-look. The combination of the two drugs administered in an alternating sequence appears to be associated with more side effects than when either drug is administered alone. The combination produced response rates similar to those seen when either drug is given alone.

Phase II trial of intraperitoneal paclitaxel in carcinoma of the ovary, tube, and peritoneum: a Gynecologic Oncology Group Study

PURPOSE

To determine the response rate of intraperitoneal (i.p.) paclitaxel in patients with small-volume residual carcinomas of the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligibility criteria included patients with one of the cancers noted above, with the largest residual disease 0.5 cm or less in maximum diameter at the end of second-look surgery, and prior treatment with systemic paclitaxel was permitted. The treatment plan was paclitaxel 60 mg/m2 i.p. weekly for 16 weeks, followed by surgical evaluation in patients without evidence of disease progression.

RESULTS

Of 80 patients entered onto the study, 76 were eligible, of whom 86% were considered to be potentially cisplatin-sensitive. Although five patients (7%) did not complete the first course of therapy because of catheter leakage or blockade, 53 patients (70%) received all 16 planned courses. Only 14 patients (18%) received fewer than 11 courses. Treatment was well tolerated, which included only moderate abdominal pain (grade 2, 12 patients; grade 3, one patient) and minimal neutropenia (grade 2, three patients; grade 3, one patient). Of 28 assessable patients with microscopic disease at the start of i.p. therapy, 17 patients (61%) achieved a surgically defined complete response (CR). Only one of 31 patients (3%) with any macroscopic disease achieved a CR. Of the eligible patients, 18 of 76 (24%) achieved a CR.

CONCLUSION

Salvage i.p. paclitaxel is tolerable and active in patients with microscopic residual disease. The impact of this treatment strategy on survival remains to be assessed in a phase III trial.

Adjuvant therapy of ovarian germ cell tumors with cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin: a trial of the Gynecologic Oncology Group

PURPOSE

This study was performed to determine the effectiveness of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with surgically resected ovarian germ cell tumors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

After tumor removal and thorough surgical staging, patients were enrolled on this study and treated with three courses of cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin (BEP). Reassessment laparotomy was required of consenting, appropriate patients initially, but became an optional procedure in 1989.

RESULTS

Of 93 patients assessable on this trial, 89 are continuously free of germ cell cancer. At second-look laparotomy, two other patients were found to have small foci of immature teratoma; both remain clinically free of recurrence. One received subsequent alternate chemotherapy and one did not. Thus, 91 of 93 patients are currently free of germ cell cancer. Follow-up duration ranges from 4.0 to 90.3 months, with 67 patients monitored for longer than 2 years. Acute toxicity was moderate. One patient developed acute myelomonocytic leukemia 22 months after diagnosis. Another patient was noted to have a malignant lymphoma 69 months after protocol treatment.

CONCLUSION

Three courses of BEP will nearly always prevent recurrence in well-staged patients with completely resected ovarian germ cell tumors and should be given to all such patients. The development of acute leukemia as a complication of treatment is disturbing and mandates careful long-term follow-up, but is unusual and does not alter the risk-to-benefit ratio of treatment.

A phase II trial of tricyclic nucleoside phosphate in patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix. A Gynecologic Oncology Group Study

A Phase II trial of TCN-P was conducted in metastatic or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix using a 5-day continuous infusion schedule. The starting dose was 35 mg/m2 x 5 days and courses were repeated every 6 weeks. Among 21 evaluable patients, 2 responses were observed. One patient had a complete response for 19+ months. Another patient had a partial response for 5+ months, but developed symptomatic hypocalcemia, requiring discontinuation of the drug. Using this dose and schedule TCN-P appears to have limited activity in metastatic or recurrent squamous cell cancer of the cervix.

Echinomycin (NSC 526417) in recurrent and metastatic nonsquamous cell carcinoma of the cervix. A phase II trial of the Gynecologic Oncology Group

Eighteen evaluable patients with recurrent or metastatic nonsquamous carcinoma of the uterine cervix were treated with 1,500 micrograms/m2 of echinomycin every 4 weeks. Seven patients had received prior chemotherapy. There was one complete response (5.6%), 95% confidence interval for response of 0-27%. The major toxicity was nausea and vomiting, which was moderate to severe in eight patients. Myelosuppression was minimal. Echinomycin in this dose and schedule displays minimal activity in patients with advanced nonsquamous carcinoma of the cervix.

Peritoneal cytology of uncommon ovarian tumors

Peritoneal cytology has been well established as a diagnostic and staging tool in the management of the common epithelial tumors of ovary. Germ cell, mesenchymal, and sex-cord stromal tumors are much less frequently encountered in peritoneal specimens, often with cytologic features that may pose problems in differential diagnosis. This report presents the cytomorphology of the ascitic fluid in cases of endodermal sinus tumor, dysgerminoma, and Sertoli-Leydig-cell tumor, and peritoneal washings in a case of ovarian malignant mixed mullerian tumor. The cytologic features of Sertoli-Leydig-cell tumors have not been well described. Careful correlation of peritoneal cytologic findings, cell-block preparations, and immunocytochemistry with the cytohistologic features of these tumors is crucial for correct tumor classification.

Telephone counseling improves adherence to colposcopy among lower-income minority women

PURPOSE

A randomized trial was conducted to evaluate the impact of a telephone counseling intervention to improve patient adherence to colposcopic examination for suspected cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).

METHODS

Subjects were lower-income, minority women who missed a scheduled initial appointment for colposcopy at an urban medical clinic. Patients were randomly assigned to either a control condition (n = 42) or a telephone counseling condition (n = 48). The 15-minute, structured telephone counseling intervention protocol addressed educational, psychosocial, and practical barriers to colposcopy adherence.

RESULTS

The most common patient-reported barriers to colposcopy adherence included a lack of understanding of the purpose of colposcopy (50%), worry about or fear of cancer (25%), and forgetting (23%). Telephone counseling was found to be highly effective in addressing these barriers and improving adherence to diagnostic follow-up and treatment. Of patients in the control condition, 43% complied with a rescheduled colposcopy appointment, compared with 67% in the telephone counseling condition. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the effect of telephone counseling was independent of sociodemographic confounder variables (odds ratio = 2.6; P less than .003). Additionally, 74% of patients who received the initial telephone counseling adhered to recommended treatment, compared with 53% of patients in the control condition.

CONCLUSION

Brief, structured telephone contact may be a cost-effective mechanism for improving adherence to diagnostic follow-up and treatment for a variety of cancer screening tests.

Mesonephric rest hyperplasia. A potential diagnostic pitfall

A case of mesonephric rest hyperplasia, an incidental finding in the hysterectomy specimen of a 48-year-old woman, was initially misdiagnosed as a well-differentiated cervical adenocarcinoma. We highlight the histologic, histochemical, and immunohistochemical features of this potential diagnostic pitfall and review the relevant literature.

Adverse psychologic consequences of positive cytologic cervical screening

Cervical cancer is still widely prevalent in the female population. This study explores the relationship of cervical cancer screening, positive versus negative Papanicolaou's test results, and psychologic status among lower-income minority women. All patients were interviewed 3 months after they had received initial test results. One hundred six women with normal Papanicolaou's test results were compared with 118 women who were referred for colposcopic examination for follow-up of positive test results. Women with positive Papanicolaou's-test results showed statistically significant elevations in worries about cancer and impairments in mood, daily activities, sexual interest, and sleep patterns. More fine-grained analyses revealed that the effects of positive results were most pronounced among those women who did not comply with colposcopy (n = 53). These findings suggest that lack of compliance with follow-up may maintain high levels of uncertainty about disease and may interfere with successful psychologic adaptation. Health education targeted to psychologically vulnerable individuals may reduce psychologic distress and enhance compliance.

A phase II trial of gallium nitrate (NSC #15200) in advanced or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix. A Gynecologic Oncology Group study

Twenty-four evaluable patients with advanced, persistent or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix were treated with 750 mg/m2 of gallium nitrate (NSC #15200) every three weeks. No patient had prior cytotoxic chemotherapy. Two patients had a partial response (8.3%), ten patients had stable disease (41.7%), and twelve (50%) had increasing disease. The 95% upper confidence bound for response is 24.0%. The major toxicities were nausea, vomiting and anemia. Gallium nitrate has minimal activity in patients with previously untreated squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.

Phase II trial of vinblastine in advanced ovarian carcinoma. A Gynecologic Oncology Group study

A phase II trial of vinblastine in patients with refractory epithelial ovarian adenocarcinoma of the ovary was conducted by the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) between March 9, 1988 and July 7, 1988. Vinblastine was administered in a dose of 9 mg/m2 intravenously every three weeks until disease progression or toxicity supervened. Twenty patients were entered initially. One was ineligible due to a previous primary cancer. Thus, 19 patients are evaluable for toxicity and response. All patients had cisplatin-combination chemotherapy and four had prior radiotherapy. Median age was 63 years (range 40-75 years). Thirteen patients had disease in the pelvis and six had extrapelvic metastases. Ten patients had grade 3 lesions and seven had grade 2. A median of two courses (range: 1-6) were administered. Toxicity was moderate. Seven patients (36.8%) experienced GOG grade 3 or 4 leukocytopenia and six had grade 3 or 4 granulocytopenia. Median nadir WBC was 2,000 cells/microliters (range 600-3,500) and platelet nadirs for the three patients with thrombocytopenia were 60,000, 116,000, and 147,000. Other toxicity included grade 3 gastrointestinal and renal toxicity in one patient each. Seven patients (36.8%) had stable disease on therapy and 12 had increasing disease. No responses were observed. Vinblastine in this dose and schedule is inactive in patients with resistant epithelial ovarian adenocarcinoma progressing on first-line chemotherapy.

Intraepithelial neoplasia of the lower genital tract

The incidence of CIN, VIN, and VAIN has increased dramatically in recent years due to a true increase in disease incidence as well as improved screening methods. Associated high-risk factors in the development of intraepithelial neoplasia are known, and effective treatment modalities are available. With the use of diagnostic techniques, patient education, and selection and utilization of appropriate therapies, intraepithelial neoplasia of the lower genital tract remains a disease that should not affect long-term morbidity, social status, or mortality of female patients.

A phase II evaluation of cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil in patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix: a Gynecologic Oncology Group Study

Cisplatin is one of the most active single agents in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix and is synergistic with 5-fluorouracil in the laboratory. The Gynecologic Oncology Group has conducted a phase II trial in which cisplatin at 50 mg/ml2 given intravenously on Day 1 was combined with 5-fluorouracil 1000 mg/m2 daily given as a 24-hr infusion on Days 1-5. Treatment was repeated every 21 days. Fifty-five patients were treated with this regimen, resulting in seven complete remissions (12.7%) and five partial remissions (9.1%). The median survival was 6.4 months. Toxic effects of grade 2 or greater were leukopenia in 10 patients (18.2%), thrombocytopenia in 2 patients (3.6%), gastrointestinal effects in 25 patients (45.5%), and renal effects in 1 patient (1.8%). On the basis of these results, the cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil regimen does not appear to have any advantage over cisplatin alone in advanced cervical cancer.

Hexamethylmelamine as first-line chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced or recurrent carcinoma of the endometrium: a phase II trial of the Gynecologic Oncology Group

Thirty-eight patients with advanced or recurrent carcinoma of the endometrium who had received no prior chemotherapy were placed on study by the Gynecologic Oncology Group. One was deemed histologically ineligible. Three patients had insufficient trials to evaluate response. Of the remaining 34 who received hexamethylmelamine 280 mg/m2 orally daily on Days 1 through 14 of each 4-week course, there were only three objective responses, two complete and one partial. Although toxicity was tolerable, hexamethylmelamine has minimal activity in advanced or recurrent endometrial carcinoma at the dose and schedule tested.

Detection of human ovarian tumor-associated antigens by antibodies isolated from ovarian carcinoma ascitic fluid

Ascitic fluid from patients with ovarian epithelial cancer contains large amounts of soluble immune complexes and is a potential source of antibodies and antigens associated with the tumor. The antibodies against tumor-associated antigens were purified from the ascitic fluids of patients with ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma. These antibodies showed specificity toward ovarian epithelial cancer when tested against ovarian tumor cell lines and paraffin-embedded tissue sections of ovarian cancer. The antigens in sera of patients were separated from IgG and IgG complexes by affinity chromatography and the free antigens were isolated. With the antibodies purified from ascitic fluid, the levels of tumor-associated antigens in sera of 10 patients with serous cystadenocarcinoma and 12 control patients were detected by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The antigens in patients with ovarian epithelial cancer were 2 to 10 times higher than those in control patients. These studies demonstrate that the antibodies isolated from ascitic fluid detect the tumor-associated antigens on tumor cells as well as the shed antigens present in serum.

Detection of human ovarian tumor-associated antigens by sandwich enzyme immunoassay

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) complexes were isolated from the ascitic fluids of patients with serous cystadenocarcinoma of the ovaries, and antiserum against the IgG complexes was raised in rabbits. The antibodies reacting with the tumor-associated antigens were purified after the rabbit antihuman IgG was removed by affinity chromatography on IgG coupled to agarose. The purified antibodies recognized antigens on two human ovarian cell lines and several fresh ovarian tumor specimens, but did not react with nongynecologic tumors. The purified antibodies (IgG) were labeled with alkaline phosphatase, and a noncompetitive enzyme immunoassay was developed to detect the tumor-associated antigens in the sera of patients with ovarian cancer. The levels of tumor-associated antigens detected by this assay were found to be two to four times higher in patients with ovarian cancer than in controls. Levels of tumor-associated antigens were higher in patients with high levels of CA 125, although a direct correlation was not observed with the levels of CA 125 in these patients.

Biopsy of the scalene fat pad in carcinoma of the cervix uteri metastatic to the periaortic lymph nodes

Fifty-five patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix uteri metastatic to high common iliac or periaortic lymph nodes underwent biopsy of the left scalene fat pad as part of a prospective clinical trial. Patients without metastasis to the scalene nodes were subsequently treated with extended field radiation therapy and were then eligible for a randomized trial of systemic chemotherapy. Only four patients were found to have micrometastases to the scalene fossa. This figure is appreciably lower than that reported in previous literature. While geographic failure continues to be a problem for this group of patients, routine use of left scalene fat pad biopsy before treatment is not recommended.

Psammoma bodies in neuroendocrine carcinoma of the uterine cervix

A case of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the uterine cervix with focal papillary clusters and psammoma bodies, features not previously seen in this tumor, is documented. Papanicolaou-stained cervicovaginal smears and pelvic washings are correlated with tissue sections of endocervical curettage, hysterectomy and cul-de-sac biopsy specimens. Although there was some variation in the cytologic features, the tumor cells were generally distinguished by nuclear molding, indistinct nucleoli, finely granular chromatin and scant cytoplasm. Argyrophil-positive intracytoplasmic granules were identified in tissue sections of the tumor. These granules were positive for ACTH and neuron-specific enolase using the immunoperoxidase technique. Ultrastructural studies were consistent with these findings. Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix is therefore a cytologically distinctive tumor in which psammoma bodies may occur.

Secretion of a 97 kilodalton glycoprotein by primary cultures of human ovarian epithelial tumor cells

The epithelial cells from both control and neoplastic ovaries were grown as primary cultures. The outgrowth of epithelial cells occurred within 3-5 days and the cells formed essentially a monolayer culture covering more than 80% of the surface of the flask within 5 weeks. The incorporation of [3H]fucose into the glycoproteins secreted into the medium was measured in the cells grown for 4 weeks. The secretion of glycoproteins in the tumor cells was twice that of the control. Analysis of the glycoproteins in the medium showed that the ovarian epithelial tumor cells secreted predominantly a 97 kilodalton glycoprotein. The growth of fibroblasts could be inhibited in these cultures by using Falcon Primaria culture flasks and the growth medium containing D-valine.