Dr. Crane on Combinations With PARP Inhibitors in Ovarian Cancer

Erin K. Crane, MD, MPH, gynecologic oncologist, Levine Cancer Institute, Carolinas HealthCare System, discusses combinations with PARP inhibitors in ovarian cancer.

There are at least 30 trials looking at combinations with PARP inhibitors. Crane says that one of the more interesting questions being asked of PARP inhibitors is their potential as a maintenance in the frontline setting in combination with chemotherapy. Additionally, investigators are looking to determine if PARP inhibitors can be used in the recurrent setting in combination with either targeted drugs or chemotherapy.

With the addition of cytotoxic chemotherapy, any side effect profile will increase, says Crane. Combinations of PARP inhibitors and chemotherapy can lead to toxicities, such as bone marrow suppression and nausea.