Targeting Angiogenesis: Taming the Medusa of Ovarian Cancer

Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2018 Dec;32(6):1041-1055. doi: 10.1016/j.hoc.2018.07.008.

Abstract

Epithelial ovarian cancer remains the most lethal gynecologic cancers with a 5-year survival rate of less than 50%. Cytotoxic combinations are associated with incremental toxicity, leading to interest in evaluating cytotoxic/biologic combinations with improved therapeutic ratios. Angiogenesis is critical to the normal physiology of the gynecologic tract and a novel drug target. Current data suggests antiangiogenics should be considered a critical component of epithelial ovarian cancer treatment. Given the serious adverse event of gastrointestinal perforation/fistula in advanced disease, priority should be given to front-line treatment. Active investigation continues in the development of novel combinations with other biologics.

Keywords: Angiogenesis; Bevacizumab; Maintenance; Ovarian cancer; Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use*
  • Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial* / blood supply
  • Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial* / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial* / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial* / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic* / drug therapy
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic* / metabolism
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic* / pathology
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / blood supply
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / pathology