Using blood tests to monitor head and neck cancer
The Role of Circulating Tumour DNA in Head and Neck Cancer
This study is testing if blood tests can help monitor treatment and detect early relapse in people with HPV-related throat cancer.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Edinburgh Academic / other |
| Locations | 5 sites (Dundee, DD2 1SG and 4 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05539638 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study focuses on oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), particularly cases associated with human papillomavirus (HPV). The research aims to develop blood-based tests that detect circulating tumor DNA, providing a minimally invasive method for monitoring treatment response and identifying early relapse. By analyzing these DNA fragments shed by tumors, the study seeks to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. The study is set against the backdrop of increasing OPSCC incidence in Scotland and aims to address the limitations of current diagnostic techniques.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, regardless of their HPV status.
Not a fit: Patients under 18 years of age, those lacking capacity to consent, or those with non-squamous cell carcinoma will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more accurate and timely monitoring of OPSCC, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using circulating tumor DNA for cancer monitoring, suggesting this approach could be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma * Both HPV positive and negative disease Exclusion Criteria: * Patients under 18 years of age * Those who lack capacity to consent * Patients with non-squamous cell carcinoma * Patients with squamous cell carcinoma out with the oropharynx
Where this trial is running
Dundee, DD2 1SG and 4 other locations
- Ninewells Hospital — Dundee, Dd2 1sg, United Kingdom (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Summerfield House - NHS Grampian — Aberdeen, United Kingdom (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Monklands Hospital ENT — Airdrie, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
- The Royal Infirmiry — Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Glasgow Royal Infirmary — Glasgow, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ashley Tay — NHS Lothian
- Study coordinator: Iain Nixon
- Email: Iain.Nixon@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk
- Phone: 07968498525
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.