Evaluating gene alterations in lung cancer using EBUS-TBNA samples

Feasibility of Evaluating Gene Alteration Analysis Using Samples Obtained by EBUS-TBNA in Patients With Lung Cancer

University Health Network, Toronto · NCT01487603

This study is testing if samples taken from lung cancer patients using a special needle procedure can help find genetic changes that might improve treatment options and outcomes.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT01487603 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to assess the feasibility of using samples obtained through endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) to analyze genetic alterations in patients with lung cancer. By focusing on patients with confirmed or suspected lung cancer who require EBUS-TBNA for staging, the study seeks to identify specific target molecules that correlate with treatment effectiveness and prognosis. The approach is particularly important for patients with advanced disease who are not candidates for surgery, as it allows for non-invasive specimen collection for molecular analysis. The findings could enhance personalized treatment strategies based on genetic profiles.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with confirmed or suspected lung cancer requiring EBUS-TBNA for staging.

Not a fit: Patients who are not medically fit for bronchoscopy or have a high suspicion of lymphoma may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients by enabling personalized therapy based on genetic analysis.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using non-surgical methods for genetic analysis in lung cancer, indicating that this approach is both relevant and potentially impactful.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years or older.
* Patients with confirmed or suspected lung cancer who require EBUS-TBNA as part of their staging investigations of the mediastinum will be considered for the trial.
* Patients with undiagnosed enlarged lymph nodes in the mediastinum suspicious for lung cancer in which a tissue diagnosis is required.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are deemed on clinical grounds not to be medically fit for a bronchoscopy.
* Patients where there is a high clinical suspicion of lymphoma.

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

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: Lung Cancer, Patients, undiagnosed enlarged, lymph nodes

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.