Management of recurrent ovarian cancer: when platinum-based regimens are not a therapeutic option

Abstract

Ovarian cancer relapses have been traditionally classified according to the platinum-free interval, leading to an arbitrary categorization of possible scenarios and treatment options. Its relevance in assessing treatment strategies has been revised in the last several years, as the panorama is constantly changing in the era of personalized medicine and targeted therapies. Factors to be considered while defining the best management of recurrent disease, and, consequently, the available treatment alternatives are increasing. Platinum remains one of the milestones of ovarian cancer treatment, but for some patients it might not be an ideal choice for several reasons other than limited platinum sensitivity. This review aims to analyze the scenarios in which platinum is not considered suitable in the management of patients with recurrent ovarian cancer, and the currently available alternatives.