MRI scan showing a cross-sectional view of the pelvis with a large, rounded mass containing internal structures, suggesting a possible ovarian cyst or tumour within the pelvic region.

Current practices for the management of advanced high-grade epithelial ovarian cancer in the UK: OC-NOW survey (2023)

Authors: C Fotopoulou, R Bowen, R Manchanda, A Michael, S McCormack, A Ullmann, A Wesselbaum, B Levick, R Miller

Published: Future Oncology, 2025

Aim

To investigate current management of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (OC) in the UK.

Materials & methods

A cross-sectional survey with 55 healthcare professionals involved in the care of OC patients was conducted via telephone/videoconference in March/May 2023.

Results

Respondents reported that homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) status and brca mutations were routinely tested before planning maintenance treatment. All respondents agreed that cytoreductive surgery should be considered at first recurrence, and 65% recommended using the Descriptive Evaluation of Preoperative Selection Criteria for Operability in Recurrent Ovarian Cancer (DESKTOP) III criteria to guide secondary cytoreduction. Platinum responders typically receive poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor maintenance therapy, regardless of HRD status.

Conclusions

Respondents reinforce that most primary OC patients in the UK have known HRD and BRCA mutation status, and the role of secondary cytoreduction is increasingly recognized.