Ovarian cancer treatment has advanced significantly, with biomarker tumor testing playing a key role in creating personalized care plans. This type of testing identifies the genetic or protein markers in a tumor, allowing doctors to match patients with targeted therapies that are most likely to be effective.
By highlighting the journeys of two ovarian cancer survivors, this article shows how biomarker testing can shape treatment choices and provide more options when patients need them most.
Cheryl’s story: The power of persistence in testing
A challenging diagnosis
Cheryl was diagnosed with Stage IIIc High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer (HGSOC) in 2015 after months of severe pain. She underwent standard treatment but faced a recurrence in 2020. At that point, her doctor recommended biomarker testing to determine if she was a candidate for PARP inhibitor therapy.
Although she tested negative for BRCA mutations and other markers at the time, the conversation opened the door to future possibilities.
Continued testing, new opportunities
In 2022, Cheryl experienced a second recurrence. This time, her team tested for PD-L1 expression to evaluate her eligibility for immunotherapy. The results were negative again, but she did not give up.
By 2023, a second opinion led to a new round of testing. This time, they tested for Folate Receptor Alpha (FRa). The result? High FRa expression, qualifying her for a new antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) therapy.
After multiple rounds of testing, Cheryl found a targeted treatment that aligned with her tumor’s unique profile.
Personalized treatment, real impact
Cheryl began targeted therapy based on her FRa results. Though she faced side effects, including temporary vision loss, her care team closely monitored her and adjusted treatment as needed. Biomarker testing gave Cheryl new hope and options when she needed them most.
Want to take control of your biomarker testing journey?
Download the Questions to Ask Your Doctor: Biomarker Tumor Testing guide to make informed decisions about your treatment.
Jean’s story: Gaining control through genetic insight
A strategic start
Jean’s treatment journey began with biomarker testing shortly after her ovarian cancer diagnosis. Her doctors tested for BRCA mutations and Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD). Though she tested negative for BRCA, her tumor was HRD-positive.
This result allowed her to begin PARP inhibitor therapy, significantly delaying recurrence.
Adapting to new findings
As her disease progressed, additional biomarker testing revealed HER2 overexpression. This opened the door to HER2-targeted therapy, helping Jean transition into a new and more effective treatment plan.
Feeling empowered
Jean credits biomarker testing with helping her feel more in control of her journey. With the support of her healthcare team, she was able to make informed decisions that aligned with her unique tumor profile.
Want to explore how different biomarkers influence ovarian cancer treatment?
What is biomarker tumor testing?
Biomarker testing identifies molecular characteristics of a tumor, helping doctors tailor treatment options to a patient’s specific cancer profile. Here are some commonly tested biomarkers and associated therapies:
BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations: May respond to PARP inhibitors like olaparib (Lynparza), rucaparib (Rubraca), or niraparib (Zejula)
HRD (Homologous Recombination Deficiency): Linked to the effectiveness of PARP inhibitors and Avastin (bevacizumab)
CA-125: Used to monitor disease progression or recurrence
HER2 overexpression: May be treated with HER2-targeted therapies like trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd)
Folate Receptor Alpha (FRa): High expression levels may indicate effectiveness of Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine)
ER/PR (Estrogen/Progesterone receptors): May benefit from hormone therapies such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex) or letrozole (Femara)
Why biomarker testing matters for ovarian cancer
Biomarker testing is not just about data. It is about finding a treatment plan that works for you. These tests:
- Increase the chance of effective treatment
- Help avoid unnecessary side effects
- Offer more personalized options
- Provide hope when standard treatments fail
Both Cheryl and Jean’s stories remind us how vital it is to advocate for biomarker testing at every stage of treatment.
See biomarkers come to life
Watch our animated guide explaining how genetic mutations and tumor markers influence ovarian cancer treatment decisions.
Stay informed, stay empowered
New biomarkers and therapies are being discovered every year. Staying informed and asking about biomarker testing at diagnosis, recurrence, or when treatments stop working could lead to new treatment pathways.
The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) offers support, education, and resources for patients, caregivers, and families navigating ovarian cancer. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or facing a recurrence, NOCC is here to help you make confident, informed decisions.
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