Pencil beam proton therapy for recurrent anal cancer

ReRad III. Pencil Beam Proton Therapy for Recurrences in Anal Cancer Patients Previously Treated With Radiotherapy

Phase 2 Interventional University of Aarhus · NCT05055635

This study is testing a new type of proton therapy for people with recurrent anal cancer to see if it can help control the tumor better while causing fewer side effects.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment55 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Aarhus Academic / other
Locations1 site (Aarhus N, Aarhus)
Trial IDNCT05055635 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the safety and effectiveness of dose-escalated pencil beam proton therapy in patients with recurrent anal cancer who have previously undergone radiotherapy. The approach aims to improve local tumor control while minimizing side effects, using proton therapy either as a pre-operative treatment for marginally resectable cases or as a definitive treatment for those who are un-resectable or have declined surgery. Participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma and meet specific eligibility criteria, including prior radiation exposure and adequate organ function.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old with bioptically verified recurrent anal squamous cell carcinoma who have previously received radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with distant metastases or those unable to undergo necessary imaging studies or complete the treatment regimen may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide improved local control of anal cancer recurrences with fewer side effects compared to traditional therapies.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies using proton therapy for other cancers have shown promising results, suggesting potential for success in this context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Recurrent anal cancer
* Bioptically verified (squamous cell carcinoma)
* Available dose plan from primary radiotherapy
* Previous RT (\>30Gy EQD2)
* Evaluated in MDT-conferences (Herlev, Aarhus)
* Age\>18 years
* PS 0-2
* Adequate organ function
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Distant metastases deemed without curative intended treatment options (PET-CT)
* Unable to undergo MRI, PET-CT
* Inability to attend full course radiotherapy and follow up in the outpatient clinic.

Where this trial is running

Aarhus N, Aarhus

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 Anal CancerRecurrent Anal Cancer
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.