advanced solid tumor Clinical Trials and Research
Also known as: metastatic cancer, stage 4 cancer, widespread cancer, advanced malignancy, disseminated cancer
Advanced solid tumors are cancers that have grown or spread from their original location in the body. Clinical trial research is actively exploring new therapies, combination treatments, and ways to manage symptoms for these conditions. Find a Trial helps patients search for active studies.
Search advanced solid tumor trials →
Common questions about advanced solid tumor clinical trials
Who can participate in clinical trials for advanced solid tumors?
Eligibility criteria vary by study, often including specific cancer type, stage, prior treatments, and overall health. Researchers use these criteria to ensure patient safety and gather reliable data. Information is available on ClinicalTrials.gov.
What are the different phases of clinical trials for advanced solid tumors?
Clinical trials typically progress through phases 1, 2, and 3. Phase 1 tests safety, phase 2 evaluates effectiveness and side effects, and phase 3 compares new treatments to standard ones. Data from ClinicalTrials.gov and NIH RePORTER inform these stages.
Do clinical trials for advanced solid tumors cost money to participate?
Generally, study-related medical costs, such as experimental treatments and tests, are covered by the trial sponsor. However, routine medical care and non-medical expenses like travel may not be. Patients should discuss this with the study team.
What are some active research directions for advanced solid tumors?
Current research focuses on targeted therapies that block specific cancer growth pathways, immunotherapies that boost the body's immune response, and novel drug combinations. Studies also explore precision medicine approaches based on tumor genetics, according to NIH RePORTER.
What types of interventions are commonly studied in advanced solid tumor trials?
Common interventions include new chemotherapy drugs, targeted agents, immunotherapies, radiation therapy techniques, and surgical approaches. Trials also investigate supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Information can be found on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Are there specific biomarkers important in advanced solid tumor research?
Yes, biomarkers like PD-L1 expression, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and specific gene mutations (e.g., BRAF, EGFR, KRAS) are often studied. These markers can help predict how a tumor might respond to certain targeted or immunotherapies, as seen on ClinicalTrials.gov.
What are common reasons someone might be excluded from an advanced solid tumor trial?
Common exclusion criteria include uncontrolled co-existing medical conditions, specific prior treatments, certain types of brain metastases, or inadequate organ function. These criteria help ensure patient safety and the integrity of study results, as detailed on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Do clinical trials for advanced solid tumors also study quality of life?
Many clinical trials for advanced solid tumors include endpoints related to quality of life. Researchers assess how new treatments impact symptoms, daily activities, and overall well-being to provide a comprehensive understanding of patient experience. This data is often collected and reported on ClinicalTrials.gov.
How to find a advanced solid tumor trial that fits you
- Describe your advanced solid tumor situation in detail — stage if applicable, prior treatments, age, and other relevant conditions.
- Use the location filter (worldwide, US, US & Canada, Europe) to narrow to trials near you.
- Review each trial's eligibility criteria carefully. Save 2–5 candidates with their NCT numbers.
- Discuss with your treating clinician before contacting the research site.
Browse all advanced solid tumor trials →