Jayanthi Lea, M.D. Answers Questions On: Gynecologic Cancers

Yes. If the cancerous cells have not spread beyond the ovaries, we may recommend a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure. We’ve found this very effective in early stages of ovarian cancer.

There are a number of options to evaluate and stage ovarian cancer. For example, protein tumor markers on the surface of the ovaries are one method (CA-125 and CA 15-3 protein markers) that can help us evaluate the progression of late-stage ovarian cancer. With an effective evaluation, our team can help patients determine the best course of action for their disease.

Yes. UT Southwestern participates in numerous multi-institutional studies. We’re involved in international collaborative efforts, as part of the National Cancer Institute’s Gynecologic Oncology Group, and participate in studies that are changing the way cancer is evaluated and treated. At UT Southwestern, I’m personally involved with a number of studies – including those involving late-stage gynecologic cancer and biologic agents that may result in a cancer vaccine.

We’re still determining which biologic agents can be used to boost the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. This includes determining how to effectively target cancer cells, as well as how to target cells before they become cancer. For example, one interesting area of research involves specific proteins, which can boost the immune system and destroy precancerous cells, as well as the surface of cancer cells.

There are a number of different factors to determine if this therapy will be effective. We work with the individual patient – and the specifics of her cancer diagnosis – to determine which treatment options will result in the best outcomes for her.

At UT Southwestern, our patients have access to the latest treatments available, including clinical trials. PARP inhibitors are a new class of drug. A cell’s PARP (poly-ADP-ribose-polymerase) enzymes are responsible for repairing its DNA. The new drugs stop the cancer cells from repairing themselves, which causes them to die. We’re investigating them as a primary treatment, as well as a method of boosting the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

We can reduce/eliminate the need to remove all the lymph nodes in surgically removing the cancer. This means fewer complications, and possibly less recovery time for the patient. This is particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of lymphedema. This condition can prevent lymphatic fluids from draining, thereby increasing the long-term likelihood of swelling in the groin and lower extremities, as well as increase the risk of infections.