DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed stage III or IV ovarian epithelial cancer, including fallopian tube and extraovarian carcinoma Cytological confirmation in the presence of clear clinical and radiological features of disease allowed Refractory to at least two prior chemotherapy regimens for advanced or metastatic disease At least one taxane/platinum containing regimen with or without one topotecan regimen Recurrent or progressive disease while on or within 6 months of last therapy regimen Must have progressed on or within 3 months of receiving topotecan as last therapy regimen Measurable disease outside previously irradiated field OR Objective evidence of disease progression if within previously irradiated field CA 125 at least 35 units/mL No CNS metastases or carcinomatous meningitis