Advanced epithelial ovarian cancer: 1993 consensus statements.

BACKGROUND

Over the last few days of a 5-day international workshop held in June 1993, a group of specialists in the field of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer tried to reach consensus on a number of issues with implications for standard practice and for research.

METHODS

Five groups of experts considered several issues which included: biologic factors, prognostic factors, surgery, management recommendations, dose intensity, supportive care, drug resistance, second-line treatment, investigational drugs, and tumour markers. Discussing the management recommendations, the group attempted to arrive at answers to four questions: Is there in fact a cure rate for advanced ovarian carcinoma? Are there prognostic factors which help to identify patients who will not do well with current therapy? What is the current best therapy for advanced ovarian carcinoma? What directions should research take in advanced ovarian cancer? In a plenary meeting these issues were discussed.

RESULTS

Consensus statements were achieved on all topics mentioned above. This article reports on the statements written by the chairmen and approved by the consensus group.