Memory-avoidance whole brain radiotherapy: trying to protect memory while treating brain metastases

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

In this phase 2 trial, adults with brain metastases receive whole brain radiotherapy designed to spare additional cognitive regions beyond the hippocampus, along with memantine, to see if cognitive function can be better preserved. The study compares MA-WBRT to HA-WBRT plus memantine, focusing on memory, processing speed, and daily functioning. Researchers will monitor safety, feasibility, and cognitive outcomes to determine whether sparing broader brain regions offers meaningful benefits. Standard supportive care and clinical assessments accompany treatment to evaluate potential trade-offs in tumor control and side effects.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants must have histologically, cytologically, or radiographically confirmed diagnosis of solid tumor with brain metastases
* Age \>18 years
* Performance status: Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) ≥ 70
* Estimated life expectancy of at least 3 months
* Participant must be considered a candidate for WBRT by the treating physician
* Participant must be a primary English speaker and have the ability to understand and the willingness to sign an English written informed consent document
* Participant has at least 10 brain metastases or is otherwise suitable for WBRT

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior whole brain radiation
* Participant has Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer's, dementia, or mental disability
* Pregnant or breastfeeding women are excluded from this study.
* Participant is not able to receive an MRI
* Participant has metastasis within avoidance neurocognitive substructures (hippocampus, amygdala, fornix, corpus callosum, pituitary, amygdala)

Where it's running

• University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
  Cleveland, Ohio, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Haley Perlow, MD — Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospitals
• Study coordinator: Haley Perlow, MD
• Email: haley.perlow@uhhospitals.org
• Phone: (216) 286-3906

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.