Chemotherapy for high-risk gestational trophoblastic tumors

Abstract

Primary therapy for high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) includes a multi-agent, methotrexate-based regimen, named EMA/CO. In France, the guidelines recommend the use of either a platinum-based protocol when methotrexate is contra-indicated or a highdose EMA/CO once brain metastases are diagnosed. For patients who are resistant to the initial therapy, different salvage approaches have been developed or adapted from treatments already used for germ cell tumors. Currently, the most frequently used protocol is a combination of etoposide and platinum-based therapy (EMA/EP). In the EMA/EP protocol, etoposide and cisplatin are used in place of cyclophosphamide and vincristine (CO in the EMA/CO regimen) with the goal of reversing resistance mechanisms of previously used drugs. Although, new approaches for improving the management of high-risk patients who are resistant or refractory to the initial therapy are now available, new molecules are still awaited to optimize patient’s care.