Understanding muscle loss in patients with incurable gastroesophageal cancer

Cancer-associated Cachexia in Patients With Incurable Gastroesophageal Cancer

Observational Rigshospitalet, Denmark · NCT06137508

This study looks at how much muscle loss happens in patients with incurable gastroesophageal cancer to help find better ways to manage this problem.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment125 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRigshospitalet, Denmark Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Copenhagen)
Trial IDNCT06137508 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on patients diagnosed with incurable gastroesophageal cancer, who are at a high risk of developing cancer cachexia, a syndrome characterized by significant muscle loss. The study aims to determine the incidence and extent of skeletal muscle wasting in these patients, as well as to explore the biological mechanisms behind this condition. Given the high prevalence of dysphagia in this population, the study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of cachexia to improve treatment strategies. By gathering data on muscle mass changes, the study seeks to inform future interventions for managing cachexia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults diagnosed with histologically verified, incurable cancer of the esophagus, stomach, or gastroesophageal junction who are referred for first-line chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years of age will not benefit from this study as they are excluded from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management strategies for cancer cachexia, enhancing the quality of life for patients with incurable gastroesophageal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While cancer cachexia is a well-recognized issue, this study's specific focus on the mechanisms in gastroesophageal cancer is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients eligible for participation are any patient diagnosed with histologically verified, incurable cancer of the esophagus, stomach, or gastroesophageal junction, referred to first line chemotherapy.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Age \< 18 years

Where this trial is running

Copenhagen

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 Gastro-Esophageal CancerCancerCancer CachexiaSarcopeniaNeoplasmsMetabolism
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.