Analyzing biological samples from skull base tumors
Official title: Molecular and Cellular Characterization of Skull Base Tumors
Run by University of Pittsburgh · NCT03759717 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how analyzing samples from skull base tumors can help identify new tumor types and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 4000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 3, 2018 |
| Main results expected | October 3, 2028 |
| Study ends | October 3, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | September 25, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03759717 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with a skull base tumor.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who do not have sufficient tumor samples at the time of resection will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study focuses on the molecular and cellular characterization of skull base tumors by analyzing biological samples and genetic material. The aim is to identify new molecular features that can redefine tumor subtypes and improve patient management strategies. By comparing primary and recurrent tumors, the study seeks to uncover changes that occur after treatment, which may lead to novel chemotherapeutic options. The findings could enhance the understanding of tumor behavior and inform personalized treatment approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for patients with skull base tumors.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in characterizing tumors at a molecular level, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of a skull base tumor Exclusion Criteria: * Insufficient tumor sample at time of resection
Where it's running
-
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Paul Gardner, MD — Associate Professor
- Study coordinator: Benita Valappil, MPH
- Email: valappilb2@upmc.edu
- Phone: 412-864-1744
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Using MRI to predict radiation effects in patients with oral or skull base tumors
This study is testing if regular MRI scans can help predict how radiation treatment affects healthy tissues in patients with tumors in the mouth or skull base.
-
Neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy with PD-1 blockade to reduce surgery for advanced head and neck cancer
This approach will try a short course of chemotherapy plus the PD-1 drug toripalimab before standard treatment for people with advanced head and neck cancers to shrink tumors and allow less extensive surgery or radiation.
-
Evaluating outcomes in neurosurgery using standardized measures
This study is trying to see how different factors affect the results of brain surgeries by collecting information from patients before and after their operations.
-
Evaluating a new hydrogel for healing after skull base surgery
This study is testing a new gel to see if it helps people heal better after skull base surgery compared to regular packing methods.
-
Observational study on managing sinonasal and skull-base tumors
This study looks at how patients with sinonasal and skull-base tumors are treated and what their experiences are, to help improve care for these conditions.
-
Assessing complications after skull base tumor surgery
This study is testing if using lung ultrasound can help find patients at risk for breathing problems and blood clots after surgery for skull base tumors.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.