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Observational study of Canadian cancer patients with rare molecular alterations

CAnadian CAncers With Rare Molecular Alterations (CARMA) - Basket Real-world Observational Study (BROS)

Observational University Health Network, Toronto · NCT04151342

This study looks at Canadian cancer patients with rare genetic changes in their tumors to see how different treatments work for them and how these cancers behave over time.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment5500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto Academic / other
Locations27 sites (Calgary, Alberta and 26 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04151342 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study collects data on Canadian cancer patients who have rare genetic changes in their tumors, which may respond to specific cancer therapies. It aims to create a cohort to understand the natural history of these cancers and compare treatment outcomes, including effectiveness and side effects, across different therapies. The study will also investigate the incidence and outcomes of specific patterns of cancer spread, such as brain metastases, and analyze real-world treatment patterns over time. By focusing on molecularly subtyped tumors, the study seeks to optimize treatment responses and improve patient survival.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are Canadian residents aged 18 and older with malignant tumors that have been molecularly tested and identified to have rare alterations.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have molecular testing completed or those with common tumor types may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective and personalized cancer treatments for patients with rare molecular alterations.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in targeting therapies based on molecular alterations, indicating a promising approach in this area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria 
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients ≥ 18 years at cancer diagnosis
* Diagnosed with malignant tumour(s) with molecular testing completed that identified rare molecular alterations
* Accessible/available molecular testing reports/documentation to confirm type(s) of molecular alteration(s) (resulting from the conduct of polymerase chain reaction \[PCR\] based next generation sequencing \[NGS\], immunohistochemistry \[IHC\], fluorescence in situ hybridization \[FISH\], liquid biopsy)
* Canadian resident received follow-up for cancer care in Canada or is currently receiving/planning follow-up for cancer care to occur in Canada at time of enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous refusal of the deceased patient, when living, to enroll in this study or patient approached for this study is unable to provide informed consent

Where this trial is running

Calgary, Alberta and 26 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.
View on ClinicalTrials.gov → Find more trials like this →
Conditions CancerMalignancies MultipleMalignant Solid TumorCancer, Therapy-RelatedMolecular Sequence VariationGenetic AlterationGene FusionReceptor Tyrosine Kinase Gene Mutation
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.