Limits to the "benefits" from our oncologic interventions: a case report.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to discuss the potential implications of prolonged and aggressive treatment of long-term survivors of ovarian cancer.


METHODS
A case report of a patient with ovarian cancer extensively treated with platinum-based chemotherapy and aggressive surgery is presented.


RESULTS
A woman with a >15-year history of ovarian cancer experienced severe neurotoxicity (peripheral neuropathy, hearing loss), underwent aggressive resection of asymptomatic and long-standing metastatic disease in the liver (with tumor recurrence <1 year after surgery), and subsequently died of secondary acute leukemia.


CONCLUSIONS
It is critical that oncologists remember that the theoretical benefits of available anti-neoplastic interventions must be carefully and constantly weighted against the potential harm they may cause.
Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
M
M
Markman
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002945:Cisplatin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003520:Cyclophosphamide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D003638:Deafness / Q000139:chemically induced; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000556:secondary / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D016609:Neoplasms, Second Primary / Q000209:etiology; D010051:Ovarian Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D003520:Cyclophosphamide; D002945:Cisplatin