Protecting thyroid function during radiation treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer

The Protection of Thyroid Function in IMRT for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study

Not applicable Interventional Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital · NCT06268600

This study is testing a way to protect the thyroid gland from radiation damage during treatment for nasopharyngeal cancer while still effectively targeting the lymph nodes.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment320 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorJiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Nanchang, None Selected)
Trial IDNCT06268600 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study focuses on optimizing the delineation of the cervical lymph node drainage area to reduce radiation-induced injury to the thyroid gland in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. By modifying the neck target volume delineation, the researchers aim to protect the thyroid without compromising the control of the cervical region. The study involves patients with newly diagnosed non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma who will receive intensity-modulated radiotherapy. The approach is designed to adapt the treatment based on the presence of positive or negative lymph nodes in specific cervical regions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-70 with newly diagnosed non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma nasopharyngeal carcinoma and no prior thyroid issues.

Not a fit: Patients with keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma or those requiring palliative treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the risk of hypothyroidism in patients undergoing radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies focusing on thyroid protection during radiation therapy, this specific approach of modifying neck target volume delineation is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. The pathological diagnosis was newly diagnosed non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
2. The clinical stage is T1-4N0-3M0 (stage I\~IVa, UICC/AJCC 8th edition);
3. There is no history of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism before treatment;
4. Using intensity-modulated radiotherapy technology,
5. Complete radical dose radiotherapy;
6. KPS≥70 points;
7. Age 18-70 years old;
8. Male or female who is not pregnant or lactating;
9. Hematological examination: white blood cells \> 4×109/L, neutrophils \> 2×109/L, hemoglobin \> 90g/L, platelets \> 100×109/L;
10. Liver function: ALT, AST \< 1.5×ULN, ALP \< 2.5×ULN, bilirubin \< ULN.
11. Renal function: creatinine \> 60 ml/min;
12. The patient signs the informed consent form;

Exclusion Criteria:

1. WHO pathological classification is keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma or basaloid carcinoma;
2. palliative treatment;
3. Have a history of other malignant tumors;
4. Pregnant or lactating women (women of childbearing age should consider taking a pregnancy test, and patients are required to use effective contraception during treatment);
5. Have a history of neck surgery;
6. Have a history of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
7. Previous history of head and neck radiation therapy;

Where this trial is running

Nanchang, None Selected

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 Nasopharyngeal CarcinomaNasopharyngeal CancerHypothyroidism
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.