Remarkable response of primary squamous cell carcinoma of the ovary to paclitaxel and cisplatin.

Abstract

The survival rate of patients with advanced stage primary squamous cell carcinoma of the ovary is dismal and the best treatment is unknown. We describe the response of this tumor to systemic chemotherapy employing paclitaxel and cisplatin. A 31-year-old white woman diagnosed with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IV primary squamous cell carcinoma of the ovary associated with ovarian endometriosis underwent cytoreductive surgery followed by paclitaxel and cisplatin every 4 weeks for 12 courses. The patient tolerated chemotherapy well, demonstrated a dramatic response with disappearance of hepatic metastases, and remains without evidence of disease 2 years after diagnosis. Paclitaxel and cisplatin may be effective in treating primary squamous cell carcinoma of the ovary.