Folate Receptor-Positive Ovarian Cancer Testing & Treatment
- Folate receptor-positive ovarian cancer is a condition where cancer cells over-express folate receptors, speeding their growth by absorbing more vitamin B9.
- Immunohistochemistry tests, free for eligible US patients, can identify if cancer is folate receptor-positive.
- Elahere, a new drug for platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, targets folate receptors directly, offering hope with fewer side effects.
- Ongoing clinical trials are exploring novel treatments like Farletuzumab and STRO-002, that focus on halting cancer cell growth by targeting folate receptors.
Their purpose is to allow folate, a type of vitamin B9 important for cell growth, to enter the cells.
Read MoreHow do you know if your cancer is folate receptor-positive?
A test called immunohistochemistry (IHC) can detect if your cancer has high levels of folate receptors.
This test is free for eligible patients in the US.
However, it’s not a test that doctors routinely order. It’s a topic worth discussing with your care team to see if you qualify and if the test is right for you.
Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Who qualifies for the free IHC test:
- Individuals with ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer
- Anyone getting treatment in the US or a US territory
- Patients who have not had this test before
- Patients whose doctor say the test is medically necessary
Two organizations offer this free test in Baltimore and elsewhere in the US:
- FR-ASSIST program: Partners with NeoGenomics and ImmunoGen offer free IHC testing for all eligible patients.
- Labcorp FR-ASSIST™ program: Provides complimentary FOLR1 IHC testing for qualifying individuals.
Related: When Ovarian Cancer Comes Back– The Standard of Care Treatment
Are there any targeted treatments for folate receptor-positive cancer?
If you’re diagnosed with FRα-positive ovarian cancer, there’s new hope in the form of a new medication.
Recently approved Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine) appears to be a game-changer for patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, a type of ovarian cancer that no longer responds to platinum-based chemotherapy, a common treatment for this disease. This resistance means that the cancer continues to grow or returns shortly after.
Elahere directly targets the FRα protein, a key component of folate receptors, offering a precise attack that minimizes side effects compared to traditional treatments.
Elahere is something to consider if you have not responded after 1-3 chemotherapy treatments, or your cancer has recurred.
The SORAYA phase 3 clinical trial reported promising results for patients using Elahere.
- Over 30% of patients experiencing tumor shrinkage or even complete remission.
- Additionally, reported side effects were more manageable than those associated with other ovarian cancer drugs.
However, some important considerations with Elahere:
- Elahere can carry serious side effects like chronic eye problems, lung inflammation, and nerve issues
- More common side effects include fatigue, elevated liver enzymes, nausea or abdominal pain, abnormal blood tests, and reduced blood cell counts.
- Elahere is relatively new, and insurance coverage may vary. Ask your doctor about financial assistance programs if needed.
- Doctors often consider Elahere later in treatment. Discuss whether or not the drug is right for you with your doctor to understand all of your options and to explore the timeline best suited for your case.
Related: How To Manage A Recurrence Of Ovarian Cancer
Are there any other treatments in the works?
Researchers are continually exploring new ways to target the FRα protein. Two promising candidates are currently in clinical trials, a type of study where researchers test the drug on real patients to see whether it is safe and effective.
- Farletuzumab: This “smart protein” binds to FRα, effectively halting cancer cell growth.
- STRO-002: This “guided missile” drug combines an FRα-targeting antibody with a potent toxin, specifically destroying cancer cells.
Talk to your doctor to see if a clinical trial might be an option for you. If your doctor determines a clinical trial may help in your situation, they can help you find and enroll in a one.
Reference: SurivorNet Clinical Trial Finder
Questions for your doctor
Stay informed and proactive in your care plan by discussing these options with your doctor. Ask questions like:
- Is my cancer folate receptor-positive?
- Am I eligible for the free IHC test?
- Is Elahere a good option for me, given my specific case?
- What are the potential side effects of Elahere?
- Are there clinical trials I could participate in?
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.