To ascertain the effect of Carboplatin and Paclitaxel combination as a second line regimen for recurrent ovarian carcinoma based on platinum sensitivity.

From January 1st, 1998 through to August 31st, 2003, 29 patients were retrospectively reviewed who had previously underwent primary cytoreductive surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy with Cisplatin or Carboplatin for ovarian carcinoma, and who had later recurred during follow up. All 29 patients had recurred at least 6 months after therapy, and thereafter received second line chemotherapy consisting of Carboplatin (5 AUC) and Paclitaxel (175 mg/m2) for a minimum of least 3 cycles and a maximum of 16 cycles. Treatment efficacy was assessed by imaging studies including Computerized tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or Ultrasonography. Complete response was determined as complete disappearance of tumor, partial response at least than 50% reduction in tumor volume, stable disease as less than 50% reduction or less than 20% increase in tumor volume, and progressive disease as more than 20% increase.

There was complete response in 6 (21%) patients, partial response in 11 (38%), stable disease in 5 (17%), showing an overall response rate of 59%. The clinical benefit (CR+PR+SD) was 76%.

The combination of Carboplatin and Paclitaxel administration seems to be an effective mode of second line therapy in patients with recurrent ovarian carcinoma who had been sensitive to prior platinum based chemotherapy.