Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin combined with carboplatin: A rational treatment choice for advanced ovarian cancer

Abstract: Objective: Many questions remain unanswered regarding the optimal treatment paradigm for ovarian cancer, and alternatives for both first- and second-line therapy are needed. Methods: This review summarizes recent data with the combination of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) and carboplatin in ovarian cancer. Results: Anthracyclines are active in ovarian cancer and lack the neurotoxic effects of taxanes. PLD has reduced cardiotoxic potential vs non-liposomal doxorubicin and is the only non-platinum monotherapy to demonstrate a significant survival advantage as second-line treatment of ovarian cancer. Replacing the taxane with PLD in platinum doublets for either first-line or recurrent ovarian cancer (ROC) has been or is being evaluated in more than 1600 patients. Studies evaluating PLD plus carboplatin in platinum-sensitive ROC have shown that the regimen is tolerable and active. Conclusion: PLD–carboplatin is a promising chemotherapy combination. Phase III trials will elucidate whether it represents a new standard of care in ovarian cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]