A phase II study combining etoposide with carboplatin and ifosfamide as salvage therapy in advanced ovarian cancer was undertaken. Objective responses were achieved in 37.5% of 16 evaluable patients with a mean progression-free interval of 8.6 months. Stable disease was present in 25% of patients; in 37.5% of patients the disease progressed on salvage. Based on original response to front-line therapy, patients were classified as being platinum-sensitive (group I) or platinum-refractory (group II). Clinical response to salvage therapy was seen in 44.5% of group I patients, but in only 28.6% of group II patients. This difference was not statistically significant. When a more precise definition of platinum sensitivity was applied, clinical responses were seen in 54.5% of group I patients, but no responses were noted among group II patients (p < 0.05). Platinum sensitivity appeared to be an important factor in achieving a response with this regimen. This combination was well tolerated, myelotoxicity being the dose-limiting toxicity encountered. No life-threatening, nonhematologic toxicities were seen. One death occurred secondary to nadir sepsis. The combination of etoposide, carboplatin, and ifosfamide is an active salvage regimen in patients with advanced ovarian carcinoma; however, severe myelotoxicities and inability to produce long-term responses underscore the need for continued trials to find a more durable salvage regimen.