RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Enabling Genomic Testing in Cancer of Unknown Primary

This study aims to improve our understanding and treatment of Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP). CUP affects many people in the UK, particularly in the North West, and can be challenging to treat because doctors don't know where the cancer started. We're exploring a new approach called 'liquid biopsies,' which involves checking for genetic information in a blood sample. This might help us discover more about CUP's features and open doors to new treatment ideas, similar to how genetic testing has helped other cancers. Currently, finding enough tissue for testing CUP can be difficult, so blood tests could offer a simpler way to get crucial information.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

The Christie NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

100

Start

15 Aug 2024

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2027

Cancer of Unknown Primary Neoplasm, Unknown Primary

What is this study about?

Imagine finding a villain, but you don't know where they came from or what their weaknesses are – that's a bit like Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP). With CUP, cancer cells are found in your body, but doctors can't pinpoint where the cancer originally started. This makes it very hard to choose the best treatment, as many cancer treatments are designed for specific types of cancer depending on their origin.

This study is a step towards understanding CUP better. We know that in some cancers, looking at the genes within the cancer cells can reveal important clues that help doctors choose more effective treatments. This is called 'precision medicine.' However, for CUP, getting enough tissue to study these genes can be tricky. This study explores a new method called a 'liquid biopsy.' This simply means taking a blood sample to look for genetic information that could come from the cancer.

By using liquid biopsies, we hope to uncover more about the unique genetic makeup of CUP. This could lead to new avenues for treatment that aren't currently available, potentially improving the outlook for people with CUP. The study is particularly relevant in the North West of England, where the number of people affected by CUP is higher than the national average, highlighting the urgent need for new insights in this area.

Key takeaways

This study focuses on Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP).
It aims to find new ways to understand CUP using gene testing from blood.
This could help develop new treatments for CUP in the future.
Participation involves providing blood samples, usually two times.
The study does not involve new medications or treatments for participants.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 16 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP). Your doctors will need to have discussed your case in a special team meeting (MDT) to confirm your CUP diagnosis, and there must be previous reports from tissue samples available. You also need to be well enough to carry out most of your daily activities without much difficulty.

We would also ask you to be willing to provide blood samples on up to two separate occasions during the study. You will need to fully understand and agree to take part, giving your written permission.

There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if your previous tests already clearly show what type of cancer you have and there's a specific treatment for it, or if you have certain infections that make blood handling difficult. If taking blood samples could be risky for you, or if you have a condition that might make it hard to follow the study's plan, you might not be suitable.

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 Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP)?
Can you provide blood samples up to two times?
Are you comfortable understanding and signing a consent form?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part in this study primarily involves providing blood samples. These will be collected up to two times during the study. You won't be receiving new medications or specific treatments as part of this study itself, as its main focus is on collecting information from your blood samples. There are no specific follow-up visits or assessments beyond the blood sample collections. The total duration of your involvement would be short, mainly centered around these two blood collection appointments.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer the benefit of contributing to a better understanding of Cancer of Unknown Primary, which could lead to improved treatments for future patients. For you personally, there isn't a direct medical benefit, as this study is observational and doesn't involve new treatments. The main risk involves the blood tests themselves, which might cause some minor discomfort, bruising, or, very rarely, infection. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (6)

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

The Christie NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Manchester, United Kingdom· Recruiting
The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Liverpool, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Blackpool, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Manchester, United Kingdom· Recruiting
University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Trust
Verified postcode
Morecambe, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Preston, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP)?

CUP is when cancer cells are found in your body, but doctors can't find where the cancer originally started.

What is a 'liquid biopsy'?

A liquid biopsy is a new type of test that looks for cancer information, like genetic material, in a simple blood sample.

Will I receive any new treatments in this study?

No, this study is about understanding CUP better using blood tests. It doesn't involve giving you new medications or treatments.

What are the main things I'll need to do if I join?

The main thing you'll need to do is provide blood samples on up to two occasions.

Can I leave the study at any time?

Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study at any point, and your medical care will not be affected.

How to find out more

EGG CUP Study Team

the-christie.egg-cup@nhs.net +44 161 918 7672 Official trial record

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