DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically confirmed stage III or IV ovarian epithelial cancer Platinum resistant disease as defined by disease progression during or within 6 months of receiving prior paclitaxel combined with cisplatin or carboplatin No elevated CA-125 as only evidence of disease recurrence Measurable disease At least 20 mm in diameter by conventional techniques OR At least 10 mm in diameter by spiral CT scan No known brain metastases