Non-invasive detection of head and neck cancer recurrence using biological fluids

Analysis of HPV and Biomarkers Present in the Biological Fluids of Patients Suffering From Head and Neck Cancer as a Non-invasive Strategy for Detecting Recurrence

Observational Regina Elena Cancer Institute · NCT06224166

This study is testing whether checking blood and saliva samples for certain markers can help find out if head and neck cancer has come back in patients.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment283 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRegina Elena Cancer Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rome)
Trial IDNCT06224166 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to analyze HPV and biomarkers in biological fluids from patients with head and neck tumors to develop a non-invasive method for detecting cancer recurrence. It involves collecting tissue, blood, and saliva samples from patients at various stages, including pre-surgery and during follow-up visits. The samples will be analyzed for the presence of HPV-DNA/RNA and miRNA, which may indicate tumor recurrence. The study is multicenter and includes both retrospective and prospective components.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years with squamous cell tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx, or larynx who are undergoing surgical treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with distant metastases, previous head and neck cancers, or those currently undergoing treatment for a second cancer may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a less invasive and more efficient method for monitoring head and neck cancer recurrence.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored similar non-invasive methods for cancer detection, showing promising results, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age over 18 years
* Patients suffering from squamous cell tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx or larynx
* Surgical patients with HNSCC primary tumors, who have not had previous tumors in other sites or adjuvant treatments prior to surgery.
* Availability of material (tissue) and follow-up data for at least one year (retrospective part)
* Written informed consent (prospective part/patients in follow-up

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of distant metastases at the time of diagnosis
* Previous head and neck cancer+
* Second cancer under treatment or follow-up for less than 5 years

Where this trial is running

Rome

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 Head and Neck Tumors
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.