Identifying genetic markers to predict early relapse in throat cancer patients

A New Mutational and Epigenetic Signature to Predict Early OPSCC Relapse

Observational Centro di Riferimento Oncologico - Aviano · NCT06138483

This study is trying to find genetic clues that can help predict if throat cancer will come back early in patients who have just been diagnosed with advanced oropharyngeal cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment267 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCentro di Riferimento Oncologico - Aviano Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations5 sites (Aviano and 4 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06138483 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify new mutational and epigenetic signatures that can predict early relapse in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). By analyzing the genetic and epigenetic changes in newly diagnosed, untreated stage III-IVa OPSCC patients, the study seeks to improve personalized treatment approaches. The findings will help in defining novel molecular markers for OPSCC and will set the groundwork for a multicenter prospective study to validate these markers. The study focuses on patients who have undergone definitive treatment and have a minimum follow-up of two years.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are newly diagnosed, untreated patients with histologically confirmed stage III-IVa OPSCC who have undergone definitive treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with distant metastases at diagnosis or those managed with palliative intent will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for OPSCC patients, potentially reducing the risk of early relapse.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in identifying genetic markers for cancer relapse, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* newly diagnosed, previously untreated, histologically confirmed stage III-IVa OPSCC, according to AJCC 7th Edition,
* managed with definitive treatment modality (either radical surgery plus adjuvant radiotherapy ± chemotherapy or definitive chemo-radiotherapy)
* minimum follow up of 2 years or who had disease recurrence within 2 years after the end of treatment.
* neoplastic lesion contains ≥ 70% neoplastic cells

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients:

* with distant metastases at diagnosis,
* who have been managed with palliative intent;
* with previous history of head and neck cancer are not eligible

Where this trial is running

Aviano and 4 other locations

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 Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
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.