Imagine there are tiny openings on ovarian cancer cells, like doorways, called “folate receptors.” These doorways let a vitamin called folate, needed for growth, enter both healthy and cancerous cells.
But having too many doors on the cancerous cells can cause a problem. Up to 80% of ovarian cancers have extra “doors” (folate receptors), fueling their rapid growth. This type of disease, called folate receptor-positive ovarian cancer, is often late stage, aggressive and advanced.
Read MoreHow do doctors test for folate receptor-positive ovarian cancer?
A test called immunohistochemistry (IHC) can reveal if your cancer has too many folate receptors. If you qualify, this test is free.Most doctors don’t routinely order an IHC, but you should ask yours if it’s right for you. Knowing more about your cancer early can lead to better outcomes.
Here’s who qualifies for the free test:
- Have ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer
- Live and receive treatment in the US
- Haven’t had this test before
- Doctor thinks it’s medically necessary
Two organizations offer the test in Salt Lake City and elsewhere in the US:
- The FR-ASSIST program partners with NeoGenomics and ImmunoGen to offer free IHC testing for eligible patients.
- Labcorp FR-ASSIST™ provides a free FOLR1 IHC test for qualifying individuals.
What drug treats folate receptor-positive ovarian cancer?
In 2022, a new treatment called Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine) was approved by the government for ovarian cancer that hasn’t responded to chemotherapy.
This drug works like a smart missile, targeting the FRα protein, the “doorway” on cancer cells. It attacks cancer precisely, leaving healthy cells unharmed, minimizing side effects and offering promising results.
Elahere is currently approved for adults with FRα-positive, platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, meaning it hasn’t responded well to standard platinum-based chemotherapy.
Studies show over 30% of patients who were given the drug saw tumors shrink or disappear, with some achieving complete remission – the cancer was completely undetectable. Side effects were often more manageable than with other ovarian cancer drugs.
However, Elahere does carry some risks of its own like serious eye problems, lung inflammation, and nerve issues.
More common side effects include:
- Fatigue
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Nausea or abdominal pain
- Reduced red or white blood cell counts
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Lower blood albumin levels
- Reduced blood magnesium levels
Because Elahere is a relatively new treatment, coverage depends on factors like your insurance provider and medical necessity. There may also be a financial assistance program available to help you pay for treatment.
Doctors often only consider Elahere later in treatment. But if you feel it may be helpful to you, you should discuss it with your care team as soon as possible so you can understand all of your treatment options now and in the future.
Related: The First Major New Treatment Option For Ovarian Cancer In A Decade
Are there any new drugs in development?
Researchers are exploring even more ways to target FRα. Two promising drugs in clinical trials which are rigorous studies designed to test out experimental drugs to see if they are safe and effective.
- Farletuzumab, is known as a “smart protein,” that functions by binding to folate receptor alpha (FRα), effectively halting cancer cell growth. By targeting FRα, farletuzumab disrupts the cellular processes essential for cancer spread.
- STRO-002, like Elahere, is another “guided missile” drug. It combines an FRα-targeting antibody with a potent poison. This allows STRO-002 to specifically locate and isolate FRα-positive cancer cells and then destroy them with poison. By selectively targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue, STRO-002 demonstrates promise as a potent and targeted treatment option for ovarian cancer.
Ask your doctor if these clinical trials might be an option for you. Your doctor can help you find and enroll.
Related: The Anatomy of Ovarian Cancer
Questions for your doctor
- Is my cancer folate receptor-positive?
- Am I eligible for the free test?
- Is Elahere a good option for me?
- What are the potential side effects of Elahere?
- Are there clinical trials I could participate in?
By staying informed and discussing these options with your doctor, you can make empowered decisions about your care.
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