Article Details - Overview
Oncology Briefings
Release Date: November 25, 2008
Expiration Date: November 25, 2009
Publication Overview
Authors
Medical writer:
Marissa Shrader, PhD; Reviewed by:
Robert Coleman, MD
Overview and Purpose
It is estimated that in 2008, > 21,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, with nearly 15,500 resultant deaths. Up to 80% of patients achieve an objective response with surgical debulking followed by first-line therapy consisting of platinum and taxane doublets. However, a large majority (75%) of these patients ultimately experience relapse; treatment options are limited for these patients. Response rates for patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer tend to be low, highlighting the need for improved therapeutic targets and strategies for these patients. Targeting the tumor microenvironment, specifically the angiogenic cascade, is an effective approach to the treatment of many solid tumors. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor (VEGFR) axis is an especially appealing target because of its central role in regulating tumor angiogenesis. Antiangiogenic strategies employed in ovarian cancer therapy include blocking VEGF-VEGFR interactions with monoclonal antibodies and inhibiting VEGFR activation with small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).
The purpose of the activity is to apprise physicians of the antiangiogenic treatment options for persistent or advanced ovarian cancer.
Target Audience
This educational activity is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with ovarian cancer. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Evaluate the safety of anti-VEGF antibodies alone and in combination with chemotherapy in patients with advanced or persistent ovarian cancer
- Assess the efficacy of anti-VEGF antibodies alone and in combination with chemotherapy in patients with advanced or persistent ovarian cancer
- Appraise the efficacy of VEGFR TKIs in patients with ovarian cancer
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest.
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
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