Relapsed, poor-prognosis ovarian cancer, individualized, interdisciplinary treatment approach, and quality of life: a case report

Abstract.

Metastatic ovarian cancer after cisplatin-containing first-line therapy is a disease with poor prognosis. The second-line treatment options currently available can induce objective remissions, but only rarely lead to prolonged periods of response. Thus, the best possible quality of life is the main goal for these patients. We report on the course of disease in a 51-year-old woman who presented with metastatic ovarian cancer that had relapsed to the liver, cisplatin-induced renal impairment, and bone marrow tuberculosis. Because of the severe co-morbidities and the poor prognosis with a life expectancy of less than 6 months, the patient had been rejected by two other hospitals. In presenting this case, we want to demonstrate that despite poor prognostic factors, co-existing morbidity, and serious therapy-related side-effects, it is possible to induce long-lasting remissions leading to sustained quality of life and ultimately to prolong the remaining life-span in selected patients. To reach such a positive outcome, it is necessary to tailor an interdisciplinary treatment approach to each patient's needs. Such treatment approaches are available in dedicated tumor centers.