Platinum resistant ovarian cancer

Platinum chemotherapy includes medicines used against ovarian cancer. Resistance means the cancer is no longer controlled by that treatment approach, based on findings such as growth on imaging, examination, symptoms, or tumour markers. The label helps clinicians choose the next plan; it does not describe how you caused the illness or rule out every available treatment.

Your oncologist may review the previous medicines, treatment response, side effects, pathology, and current symptoms. Genomic tumour profiling and BRCA genetic testing may be discussed because tumour and inherited genetic information can influence which treatments are suitable. A pelvic ultrasound or other imaging may help assess a new concern, depending on the situation.

Ask what the treatment goal is and how it will be assessed. Options may include a different systemic treatment, a targeted approach when appropriate, surgery for selected problems, or care focused on symptoms and quality of life. Palliative care can begin at any stage and may help with pain, nausea, appetite, fatigue, sleep, and emotional strain.

Record changes in abdominal discomfort, bloating, bowel habits, urinary symptoms, appetite, weight, and energy. Tell the oncology team about these changes and all medicines or supplements. Do not stop cancer treatment or supportive medicines without discussing it with the prescriber.

Call the care team promptly for increasing abdominal swelling, ongoing vomiting, inability to pass stool or gas, fever, dehydration, or pain that is not controlled by the prescribed plan. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, confusion, heavy bleeding, or sudden severe pain.

What findings show platinum resistance in my case? Which non-platinum treatments fit my health and previous treatment, how will we judge whether they help, and should genomic profiling, BRCA testing, surgery, or palliative care be considered?