Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 0 to 99

Understanding the genetic causes of childhood liver cancer

Official title: Genetic and Molecular Basis of Pediatric Liver Cancer

Run by University of Pittsburgh · NCT03959800 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to find out the genetic causes of childhood liver cancer to help doctors diagnose and treat these rare cancers better.

More Hepatocellular Carcinoma trials

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages0 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
Enrollment1600 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Pittsburgh
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJune 22, 2015
Main results expectedJune 30, 2030
Study endsJune 30, 2035
Registry record updatedAugust 10, 2026
Trial IDNCT03959800 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include children under 21 years who have received treatment for a childhood liver tumor, as well as their biological parents and siblings.

Probably not a fit

Patients who have not received treatment for a childhood liver tumor or those with non-biological family members will not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the molecular and genetic basis of pediatric liver cancers, including hepatoblastoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. By collecting biological samples such as tumor tissue, saliva, and blood from affected patients and their families, the study seeks to improve classification systems based on tumor biology rather than just appearance. The goal is to identify genetic defects that could lead to better diagnoses and treatments for these rare cancers. The research will involve both retrospective and prospective data collection to achieve a comprehensive understanding of these conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for childhood liver cancer.

How similar studies have gone: While pediatric liver cancers are rare, similar studies exploring genetic bases in other cancers have shown promise, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Prior or current treatment for a childhood liver tumor, malignant or benign, at age \<21 years.
* Biological parents and siblings of eligible children.

Exclusion Criteria:

* No prior or current treatment for a childhood liver tumor.
* Non-biological parents, legal guardians, or non-biological siblings of eligible children.

Where it's running

  • UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.