Dr. Crane on the Impact of PARP Inhibitors in Ovarian Cancer

Erin K. Crane, MD, MPH, gynecologic oncologist, Levine Cancer Institute, Carolinas HealthCare System, discusses the impact of PARP inhibitors for patients with ovarian cancer.

In December 2014, olaparib (Lynparza) was approved by the FDA for use in patients with germline BRCA mutations who had 3 or more prior treatments. This has led to more PARP inhibitors being pushed through the pipeline, explains Crane, such as rucaparib (Rubraca), and niraparib (Zejula) for patients with recurrent disease.

Trials are being conducted in all-comers with platinum-sensitive disease, which may lead to further FDA approvals. Close to 1-year improvement in progression-free survival with a good quality of life has been seen with PARP inhibitors, says Crane.