Investigating MRI Biomarkers in Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
HN QUEST- Evaluation of Online MRgRT and Repeat Functional Imaging in Patients Undergoing Curative (CT)RT for HN Malignancy
This study is testing if MRI scans can help doctors better tailor treatment for patients with newly diagnosed head and neck cancer to improve their outcomes and reduce side effects.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 173 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation, chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT05919290 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore the use of MRI imaging biomarkers in patients with newly diagnosed Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) undergoing curative therapy. It consists of two arms: one involving up to 100 HNSCC patients receiving weekly non-contrast MRI scans during treatment, and another with healthy volunteers and HNSCC patients undergoing multiple MRI scans at different treatment stages. The goal is to develop predictive and prognostic biomarkers that can personalize radiotherapy based on early patient responses. This approach seeks to improve treatment efficacy while minimizing long-term side effects.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with histologically confirmed HNSCC and planned for curative treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with systemic diseases, contraindications for MRI, or those who have had previous solid tumors treated within the last five years may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for patients with head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using imaging biomarkers for treatment personalization, indicating this approach has potential based on prior successes.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria for Cancer Patients: * Age \>/= 18 years * Histologically proven Head and Neck Squamous Cell carcinoma * Primary or nodal disease \> 3cm for biomarker imaging * Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status 0-2 * Planned for curative surgery or (chemo)radiotherapy * Willingness to undergo repeat MRI * Able to receive and understand verbal and written information regarding study and able to give written informed consent * Adequate renal function: Calculated creatinine clearance \>/= 30ml/min * Be able to lie comfortably on back for 1 hour Exclusion Criteria for Cancer Patients: * As judged by investigator evidence of systemic disease that makes unsuitable for study * Contra-indication for serial MRI scans * Previous solid tumor treated within last 5 years * Pregnancy * History of significant obstructive airway disease * History of gadolinium contrast allergy Inclusion Criteria for Healthy Volunteers * Age \>/= 18 years * Able to receive and understand verbal and written information regarding study and able to give written informed consent * Willingness to undergo repeat MRI Exclusion Criteria for Healthy Volunteers * Unwillingness to sign informed consent * Contra-indication for MRI * Underlying significant respiratory disease
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andrew McPartlin, MD — Radiation Oncologist
- Study coordinator: Rehab Chahin, MD
- Email: Rehab.Chahin@uhn.ca
- Phone: 416-946-4501
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.