Opinion
Video
The Importance of Multidisciplinary Collaboration in the Management of Ovarian Cancer
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An expert discusses how multidisciplinary collaboration can be enhanced through shared knowledge of available drugs and biomarkers among oncologists and pathologists, standardized interpretation methods across different cancer types, and clear communication about trial-specific algorithms to optimize treatment plans and ensure proper biomarker assessment.
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Optimizing multidisciplinary collaboration between oncologists, gynecologic oncologists, and pathologists requires comprehensive knowledge sharing across specialties. Medical and gynecologic oncologists must understand available targeted therapies, biomarker requirements, and FDA or National Comprehensive Cancer Network guideline indications for ovarian cancer treatment. Equally important is understanding biomarker testing methodologies and interpretation criteria that determine treatment eligibility. Pathologists need detailed knowledge of biomarker interpretation schemes, as different cancer types have varying guidelines for markers like HER2, with separate interpretation standards for endometrial, gastric, and breast cancers affecting ovarian cancer treatment decisions.
Effective communication between oncologists and pathologists ensures accurate biomarker interpretation and optimal patient selection for targeted therapies. The complexity of biomarker scoring systems requires careful coordination, as demonstrated by the initial failure of mirvetuximab vedotin trials due to incorrect folate receptor α scoring mechanisms. Once refined scoring methods were implemented, the drug showed significant efficacy, highlighting the critical importance of using appropriate assessment algorithms. This collaboration extends to emerging biomarkers including B7-H4, TROP2, and mesothelin, where expression level requirements and optimal patient selection criteria are still being established.
Future challenges in multidisciplinary ovarian cancer care involve managing multiple antibody-drug conjugate options with similar payloads but different targets. As more targeted therapies become available, teams must determine optimal treatment sequencing when patients may be candidates for multiple biomarker-driven therapies. The decision between folate receptor α–targeting drugs with different payloads, or choosing between HER2 and folate receptor α–targeting approaches, requires ongoing collaboration and evidence-based decision-making. This evolving landscape demands continuous communication and updated protocols to ensure patients receive the most appropriate targeted therapy for their specific tumor characteristics.
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