Predicting cancer risk in oral leukoplakia using MAGE-A markers

Prospective Prediction of Malignant Transformation of Oral Leukoplakia Using a MAGE-A-based Immunoscore

Observational University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School · NCT03975322

This study is trying to see if certain markers in people with oral leukoplakia can help predict their risk of developing oral cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsimmunotherapy
Locations1 site (Erlangen)
Trial IDNCT03975322 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the potential of MAGE-A gene family antigens as predictive markers for the malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia (OLP). Given that a significant percentage of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) arise from OLP, early detection is crucial for improving patient outcomes. The study will assess the presence of MAGE-A antigens in patients diagnosed with OLP to determine their risk of developing OSCC. By identifying high-risk lesions, the study seeks to enhance therapeutic decision-making and potentially guide immunotherapy approaches.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 to 80 with a diagnosis of oral leukoplakia.

Not a fit: Patients with invasive carcinoma of the oral cavity or a history of oral cavity carcinoma will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection and management of patients at risk for oral squamous cell carcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of MAGE-A as a predictive marker is promising, this approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in similar studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults, consenting male or female patients
* Age 18 - 80 years
* Diagnosis of one or more leukoplakia of the oral cavity

including

* leukoplakia associated wit lichen planus OR
* leukoplakia associated with diseases of the immune system or immunosuppression OR
* leukoplakia associated with a malignoma of other sites (except oral cavity) in the anamnesis
* Existing consent to participation in the study after clarification has been given

Exclusion Criteria:

* clinical evidence of invasive carcinoma of the oral cavity OR
* carcinoma of the oral cavity in the anamnesis OR
* patients unable to give informed consent OR
* rejection of the patient

Where this trial is running

Erlangen

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 Oral LeukoplakiaOral Leukoplakia of TongueOral Leukoplakia of GingivaOral Lichen PlanusOLPoral cancerOSCCoral squamous cell carcinoma
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.