Early detection of high-grade serous ovarian cancer using DNA from Pap smear samples

Early Diagnosis of High-grade Serous Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Through the Analysis of DNA Derived From Pap Test Smear.

NA · Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS · NCT07556562

This project will test whether DNA from Pap smears can detect early signs of high-grade serous ovarian cancer in women with inherited (germline) mutations who are having risk-reducing fallopian tube or ovary surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment260 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorFondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS (other)
Locations1 site (Roma, Roma)
Trial IDNCT07556562 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This prospective and retrospective project enrolls women with germline cancer-predisposing mutations who are undergoing risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy or salpingectomy. Researchers will compare molecular alterations found in fallopian tube specimens, including Serous Tubal Intraepithelial Carcinoma (STIC), with DNA recovered from prior or concurrent Pap test smears to measure concordance. The goal is to validate whether tumor-derived DNA shed to the cervix can serve as a reliable early detection signal. The study will also examine how the tumor microenvironment may influence progression from STIC to high-grade serous ovarian cancer.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal participants are women with documented germline mutations who are candidates for prophylactic risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy or salpingectomy and can give informed consent.

Not a fit: Women without germline mutations, those not undergoing prophylactic surgery, or whose lesions do not shed detectable DNA to the cervix are unlikely to benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enable earlier detection of high-grade serous ovarian cancer using routine Pap smears, potentially reducing cancer deaths.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data show identical molecular alterations in STIC lesions and Pap smears years before diagnosis, but large-scale clinical validation has not yet been completed.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with germline mutations candidate to prophylactic surgery RRSO (risk-reducing salpingo- oophorectomy) or RRS (risk-reducing salpingectomy)
* Able and willing to sign informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Germline mutated patients unwilling to join the trial and non-compliant with trial procedures

Where this trial is running

Roma, Roma

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Germline Mutations

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.