Factors to consider and questions to ask in the management of recurrent ovarian cancer: a focus on the role of trabectedin + pegylated liposomal doxorubicin.

INTRODUCTION: Given the heterogeneity of both disease and clinical situation, recurrent ovarian cancer continues to be a considerable therapeutic challenge. While newer treatment options have led to improved clinical outcomes, treatment selection has become more complex. An increasing number of clinical questions must be addressed before the optimal strategy and sequence can be decided for an individual patient. Areas covered: In this review, evidence is examined to guide decision-making for the main treatment options of surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Expert commentary: For each option, the same set of patient- and tumor-related factors can be used to identify appropriate candidates. Over the next few years, results of ongoing randomized studies are expected to shed light on several unresolved issues in the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer.