Recurrence, Platinum Resistant

Hi Dr. Goodman
I was diagnosed Ovarian Cancer IIIC May 2006, and had optimal debulking on May 16, 2006...total hysterectomy, omentum, small tumors on sigmoid colon, pelvic side wall and diaphram removed and ascites.  I am 54 yrs. old.  I completed 6 cycles of IV/IP treatments taxol/cisplatin on September 27th.  I recurred in February with lung mets.  CT scan showed 4 lensions all under 6mm.  A repeat scan six weeks later showed an additional lesion and that the other four have increased in size, largest 8mm.  My abdomen and pelvis are clear.

My oncologist does not want to do any further testing or treatment before starting Doxil on a clinical trial with another drug.  My quesions are:  Should I not have a biopsy? and why would they not consider radiation, radiofrequency ablation or surgery first?  Do you agree with the Doxil trial?

Thanks
Kristie

[Tybear]

I know when I recurred I was hoping for surgery as well. My Dr said that because I had the "major" one done already, there was nothing left for him to take. He was afraid about quality of life issues (ie: colostomy bag etc...) and being only 28, that was  a big deal for me too. I questioned about a biopsy and, really, why bother. They knew it was a recurrence and a biopsy would have only wasted time - I wanted to start treatment ASAP. I would just go ahead and start the doxil - from what I know that's the first choice, second line treatment for platinum resistant cancer. As for radiation, I was told they don't like using it for ov/ca because they have to radiate the entire abdomen, which would include healthy organs too. The risks out weigh the benefits. If it was one, localized tumor, then maybe they could do it, but because it's spread around it would mean radiating everything.
Good luck to you...I know a having a recurrence is like someone pulling the rug from beneath your feet. You'll get through this...
Becky

[Kristie5]

Becky, I meant to post my question to Dr. Goodman, but I am not thinking straight.  I was so happy to see that you replied to my questions anyway.  I have read all your posts and I admire your strength and courage.  You are a remarkable and beautiful woman!

I am having great difficulty accepting the fact that I have recurred (I am really feeling pretty good), so I guess I am grasping at straws.  The craziest thing is that I am really upset about the possibility of losing my hair again as it is about 3 inches long now and I was just getting ready to go without a wig.  I hate the way the wig feels and looks.

I hope you are feeling better.
Kristie

[SimplyStar]

My daughter  is just getting her 1st recur  also, dx  in June 06, last chemo   Nov 26, just got the word today that she starts a clinical trial through Mayo,  they told her dangerous but not life threatning, she evidently will be the first one on this trial.  Will know more when she gets home from work today, she got in late from Minn late last night.  You girls just need to keep fighting this d*** monster, my heart goes out to all of you.

[Tybear]

That's not silly about the hair...it was my first thought too. It was bad enough having to lose it the first time...to have to do it again is like salt in a wound.
We're all here to support you...lean on us when you need to.
Becky

[Tybear]

You can email me at ***@****...