Reduced Radiation Therapy for Oropharyngeal Cancer
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this study is to use intra-treatment 18FDG-PET/CT during definitive radiation therapy for human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) as an imaging biomarker to identify and select patients with a favorable response for chemoradiation dose de-escalation. This study will prospectively evaluate the clinical outcomes for patients undergoing dose de-escalation.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of reduced radiation therapy for oropharyngeal cancer?
Research shows that oropharyngeal cancer linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) responds well to lower doses of radiation, maintaining high cure rates while reducing side effects. This is because HPV-positive cancers are more sensitive to radiation, allowing for effective treatment with less intensity.12345
Is reduced radiation therapy for oropharyngeal cancer safe?
How is reduced radiation therapy different from standard treatments for oropharyngeal cancer?
Reduced radiation therapy for oropharyngeal cancer involves using a lower dose of radiation compared to the standard treatment. This approach is being studied because it may reduce side effects and improve quality of life for patients, especially those with HPV-positive cancer, which tends to respond better to treatment.12358
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 18 with HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, confirmed by specific tests, who haven't had chemotherapy for their current diagnosis. They should be in good physical condition with minimal weight loss recently and have early to mid-stage cancer treatable with chemo.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Radiation
Participants receive definitive radiation therapy with interim 18FDG-PET/CT imaging to assess response for potential dose de-escalation
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessment of acute and long-term adverse events
Treatment Details
Interventions
- 18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET)-Computed Tomography (CT) (Other)
- De-escalated radiation dose (Radiation)
- Standard radiation dose (Radiation)
De-escalated radiation dose is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer
- HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma