Observing viral biomarkers and microRNAs in oropharyngeal tumors and occult cancers related to HPV

Observational Study of Viral BIOmarkers and microRNAs in Tumors Orofarynx and Occult Tumors Positive for Papilloma Virus

Observational Regina Elena Cancer Institute · NCT05918510

This study is testing if certain viral markers and microRNAs in oropharyngeal tumors can help doctors better diagnose and monitor HPV-related cancers and find new treatments.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment142 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRegina Elena Cancer Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rome)
Trial IDNCT05918510 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the presence and expression of HPV-DNA, specific microRNAs, and mutational profiles in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx and occult tumors. By analyzing tissue and biological fluids, the study seeks to determine the prognostic and diagnostic value of these biomarkers. Additionally, it aims to enhance the sensitivity and specificity of existing radiological methods like PET-CT and MRI for monitoring disease progression. The collected samples will also be used to create organoids and Patient Derived Xenografts (PDX) to explore potential new molecular drugs for overcoming resistance to treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 with squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx or occult neoplasms with lymph node metastases who have undergone specific treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with distant metastases at diagnosis or those with a history of previous head and neck cancers may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic and prognostic tools for patients with HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using biomarkers for HPV-related cancers, but this specific approach is novel and untested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx and occult neoplasms with lymph node metastases laterocervical cytologically positive for squamous cell carcinoma treated with TORS or RT or RT/CT
* Age \> 18 years
* ECOG performance status \<\_ 2
* Ability to follow study procedures and complete questionnaires
* Signature of informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of distant metastases at the time of diagnosis
* Previous cancer of the head and neck district
* Second tumor in therapy 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 Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the OropharynxCarcinomas of Unknown Primary SiteHigh-risk Human Papillomavirus InfectionLiquid BiopsyLymph Node MetastasisOccult Tumor of the Head and Neck AreaOropharyngeal TumorOccult Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.