Understanding Less Common Ovarian Cancers (LCOCs): Updated Review and Management Strategies

Standard protocols for the management of less common ovarian cancers (LCOCs) are still evolving. To date, all histologic entities of ovarian cancers have been managed with similar strategies as used for high-grade serous tumors. However, emerging data suggests that LCOCs are separate entities each possessing distinct clinical behavior and molecular profile. Good quality evidence for the management of these tumors is limited by small study population, less cost-effective studies, long recruitment times and less prioritization in funding. Growing evidence suggests that there is better overall outcome for patients with LCOCs who are being managed in large centers with adequate expertise and experience. With the expansion of paradigm of knowledge on molecular profiles in cancer research and development of newer drugs targeting distinct cellular pathways, there is upcoming data showing benefits of newer drugs as effective treatments for LCOCs. This updated review will outline important clinical features, molecular profiles, management strategies and recent developments in the treatment of LCOCs.