Rapid autopsy program for small cell lung cancer patients

Rapid ("Warm") Autopsy Protocol for Patients With Small Cell Lung Cancer

Observational Indiana University · NCT05889546

This study is trying to set up a quick way to collect and analyze tumor samples from small cell lung cancer patients after they pass away to help find important markers for the disease.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIndiana University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Indianapolis, Indiana and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05889546 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot project aims to establish a rapid autopsy program specifically for patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) at the Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center. The study involves collaboration among scientists, lung cancer physicians, and pathologists to outline the necessary components for tumor tissue collection. The collected tumor tissues will be utilized for various analyses, including protein and gene analysis, RNA sequencing, and whole exome sequencing, contributing to the identification of biological and molecular markers of SCLC.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have an active diagnosis of small cell lung cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of small cell lung cancer or are under 18 years old may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could enhance our understanding of small cell lung cancer and lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While rapid autopsy programs have been explored in other cancer types, this specific approach for small cell lung cancer is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. ≥ 18 years old at the time of informed consent
2. Written informed consent and HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information.
3. Active SCLC diagnosis.

Where this trial is running

Indianapolis, Indiana and 2 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.
Conditions Small Cell Lung CancerLung CancerFuture Research
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.