RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Assessing Cancer Treatment Response to Therapy Using 18F-FSPG PET

This research is looking at a new type of body scan called 18F-FSPG PET. We want to see if this scan can help doctors understand sooner how well cancer treatments are working for people with specific types of lung cancer (called non-small cell lung cancer, or NSCLC) and head and neck cancer (called head and neck squamous cell cancer, or HNSCC). We'll compare the results from this new scan with those from standard scans and tests currently used to monitor treatment. The aim is to see if 18F-FSPG PET can give an earlier sign of whether a treatment is effective, which could eventually help doctors make more informed decisions about cancer care.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

Start

19 Feb 2025

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2027

Cancer Diagnosis Resistant Cancer Response, Acute Phase

What is this study about?

When someone has cancer, doctors use different ways to check if the treatment is working. This study is exploring a new type of imaging scan, called 18F-FSPG PET, to see if it can give us a clearer and earlier picture of how a person's body is responding to cancer treatment. This is really important because if doctors can tell sooner whether a treatment is effective, they can adjust plans more quickly if needed, which could improve outcomes for patients.

We're focusing on two specific types of cancer: lung cancer (known as non-small cell lung cancer, or NSCLC) and head and neck cancer (known as head and neck squamous cell cancer, or HNSCC). Participants in this study will have the new 18F-FSPG PET scan, in addition to the standard scans and treatments they would already be receiving. By comparing the results from the new scan with the established methods, we hope to learn if 18F-FSPG PET can accurately predict how well the treatment is working.

The main goal is to see if changes picked up by the 18F-FSPG PET scan can predict treatment success. We also want to understand more about how this new scan works in people with these cancers and how its results compare to other important information doctors gather, such as blood tests and tissue samples.

Key takeaways

Investigates a new imaging scan (18F-FSPG PET) for cancer.
Focuses on lung cancer and head & neck cancer.
Aims to tell if treatment is working sooner than standard methods.
Participants receive usual cancer treatment plus extra scans.
Participation lasts about 12 weeks after treatment starts.
Results could help improve future cancer treatment decisions.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 16 years old and have been recently diagnosed with either non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC). Importantly, you should not have started any cancer treatment yet, as the study needs to observe how the new scan works from the very beginning of your treatment journey.

You also need to be able to attend all scheduled appointments and tests. Doctors will also check that your main body organs are working well enough for you to take part safely. If you meet these general requirements, the research team will explain everything to you in detail.

However, there are reasons why you might not be able to participate. For example, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other serious uncontrolled health conditions, you wouldn't be able to join. Also, if your doctors believe you may need urgent, palliative radiotherapy within the first three months of treatment, or if your prognosis is less than three months, you would not be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 16 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with specific lung or head & neck cancer?
Have you NOT started any cancer treatment yet?
Are you able to attend all scheduled study appointments and tests?
Are you currently not pregnant or breastfeeding?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to join this study, you will continue with your standard cancer treatment as planned by your doctors. In addition to your usual care, you will have the new 18F-FSPG PET scan both at the beginning (before starting treatment) and during your treatment. These scans are similar to other PET scans you might already be familiar with.

You will also have standard scans (like PET/CT scans) and possibly some blood tests and tissue samples taken, which are all part of your usual cancer monitoring. The study team will coordinate these extra appointments with your main cancer care to make it as convenient as possible. The total duration of your participation in the study's active phase will be around 12 weeks, following the start of your standard treatment.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits of taking part include contributing to medical knowledge that could improve future cancer care and potentially getting additional information about your treatment response through the experimental scan. As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with the scans, such as exposure to a small amount of radiation, similar to other medical imaging tests. The study will be carefully monitored for your safety, and you will be fully informed of all known risks before consenting. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is an 18F-FSPG PET scan?

It's an experimental imaging scan that uses a special substance to show how cancer cells are responding to treatment. We're testing if it gives earlier insights than standard scans.

Will I still get my usual cancer treatment?

Yes, you will receive your standard cancer treatment as planned by your doctors. This study adds extra scans to understand treatment response better.

Is this scan safe?

All medical scans, including PET, involve some radiation exposure, similar to many diagnostic tests. The study will ensure your safety is a top priority, and all risks will be explained.

How long will I be in the study?

The main part of your involvement will be for the first 12 weeks of your standard cancer treatment, with scans at the beginning and during this period.

Can I leave the study if I change my mind?

Absolutely. You can withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, and it will not affect the quality of your regular medical care.

How to find out more

Gark Cook

gary.cook@kcl.ac.uk 0207 188 8364 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.