Using advanced proton therapy to treat pediatric ependymoma

Is this trial a fit for you?

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

What this trial studies

This phase I trial investigates the safety and effectiveness of linear energy transfer (LET) optimized image modulated proton therapy (IMPT) in pediatric patients diagnosed with ependymoma. The study aims to evaluate the side effects of this innovative radiation therapy, which utilizes proton beams to target tumor cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Additionally, advanced imaging techniques will be employed to identify biomarkers that reflect changes in the tumor and assess the treatment's impact on patient outcomes. Patients will receive treatment over a period of up to six weeks, followed by regular follow-ups to monitor their progress.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Previous pathologic confirmation of ependymoma, World Health Organization (WHO) grade II or III
* Disease must be confined to the brain (no evidence of spread on MR imaging of the spine or on staging lumbar puncture)
* Patient may not receive chemotherapy concurrent with radiation
* Signed informed consent by patient and/or parents or legal guardian
* Lansky performance status score of 50 -100

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with previous radiation therapy to the brain
* Ependymoma of the spine
* Disseminated ependymoma requiring craniospinal radiation therapy
* Pregnancy
* Inability to undergo MR imaging
* Inability to receive gadolinium-based contrast agent

Where it's running

• M D Anderson Cancer Center
  Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting
• Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Not yet recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: David R Grosshans — M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
• Study coordinator: David Grosshans
• Email: dgrossha@mdanderson.org
• Phone: 713-563-2300

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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.