Creating a tumor bank for families with multiple blood cancers

Establishing a Tumor Bank and Initial Analysis of Germline and Tumor-Related Genetic Alterations in Families With Multiple Lymphoproliferative Malignancies

Observational Dana-Farber Cancer Institute · NCT00131014

This study is trying to collect samples from families with multiple blood cancers to see if there are specific genetic factors that make them more likely to develop lymphomas.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorDana-Farber Cancer Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trial IDNCT00131014 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore genetic factors that may contribute to the development of lymphomas by establishing a tumor bank. Participants will provide detailed family and medical histories, along with blood and possibly mouthwash samples, which can be submitted by mail. The study will also involve obtaining consent for the use of lymphoma tissue blocks from participants and their affected relatives. The goal is to identify unique genetic characteristics in familial lymphomas compared to sporadic cases and to pinpoint genes that may increase lymphoma risk.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia who have a first-degree relative with a lymphoproliferative disorder.

Not a fit: Patients without a family history of lymphoproliferative disorders or those not diagnosed with the specified conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better understanding and potential prevention strategies for lymphoma in families with a history of these cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in identifying genetic factors in familial cancers, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Any individual diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or Hodgkin's disease or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), who has a 1st degree relative (parent, sibling or child) with a lymphoproliferative disorder; or families in which the individual has a lymphoproliferative disorder, and an unusual clustering of frequent or premature solid tumors is also observed.
* Family members of the individual, either affected or unaffected with lymphoma, who are contacted by the individual and agree to participate in the study.
* Deceased family members may be included in the study. Public records such as death certificates may be used to confirm the history. Consent for medical records or tissue blocks will be obtained from the deceased family member's next of kin. The hierarchy of relatives defined as next of kin is spouse, offspring, parents and siblings. Archived tissue samples may be used for genetic research.
* Age \> 18 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* Subjects without a family history of lymphoma

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Non-Hodgkin's LymphomaHodgkin's DiseaseLeukemia, Lymphocytic, ChronicLymphoproliferative DisordersHodgkin's diseaseChronic Lymphocytic LeukemiaLymphoproliferative disorderGenetics
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.