PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: Not specified Chemotherapy: No prior paclitaxel therapy No more than 1 prior chemotherapy regimen for metastatic disease At least 4 weeks since chemotherapy Greater than 6 weeks since nitrosoureas, melphalan, or mitomycin Endocrine therapy: Not specified Radiotherapy: At least 4 weeks since radiotherapy No prior whole pelvic radiation Surgery: At least 4 weeks since major surgery