AuthorisedTherapeutic use (Phase IV)Interventional

A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, adaptive, non-inferiority trial to investigate shortening treatment duration in uncomplicated candidemia: the CanTEN trial

The CanTEN study is an important research project investigating how we treat a serious bloodstream infection caused by a fungus called candida, known as candidemia. Sometimes, these infections can be difficult to manage. This study wants to find out if patients can get better with a shorter course of antifungal medication compared to the usual longer treatment. Researchers are comparing common approved medicines like caspofungin with a placebo (a dummy treatment) to understand if a shorter treatment duration is equally effective in preventing the infection from coming back. This type of research helps doctors understand the best way to care for patients, aiming to reduce treatment time while keeping patients safe and well. The study also looks at how patients feel and their quality of life.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic use (Phase IV)

Sponsor

University Of Cologne

Enrolment target

420

Start

28 May 2026

Candidemia

What is this study about?

Imagine you have a serious infection in your blood caused by a type of fungus called candida. This infection is called candidemia. Doctors usually treat this with antifungal medicines for a certain amount of time. But what if we could treat it for a shorter period and get the same good results?

That's exactly what the CanTEN study is trying to figure out. It's comparing the standard treatment duration with a shorter one to see if the shorter treatment is just as effective and safe. By doing this, doctors hope to find better ways to treat candidemia, which could mean less time on medication and potentially fewer side effects or hospital stays for patients.

The study leaders will be looking closely at whether the infection comes back after treatment, how well you recover, and how you feel in general. They'll also check for any side effects from the medication. This research is important because it could help improve treatment plans for many people in the future.

Key takeaways

It aims to find out if shorter treatment for candidemia is safe and effective.
It compares standard treatment with a shorter one using approved antifungals.
The study also checks how patients feel and their recovery rates.
Participation involves close medical monitoring and answering questions about your health.
Results could help improve future care for patients with candidemia.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you would need to be at least 18 years old. Both men and women are welcome to take part.

The medical team will carefully check your health to make sure the study is a good fit for you and that it's safe for you to participate. They will review your medical history and current condition to confirm you meet all the necessary requirements for the study.

It's important to remember that not everyone who is interested will be able to join. Your doctors will discuss all the details with you to see if you are suitable for this particular research.

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 18 years old or older?
Do you have a candidemia infection?
Are you able to attend appointments and follow study instructions?
Do you understand that you might receive a shorter treatment or a dummy treatment?
Are you comfortable potentially taking antifungal medicine (caspofungin)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join the CanTEN study, you'll be assigned by chance to one of two groups. One group will receive the standard antifungal medicine (caspofungin) for the usual length of time, and the other group will receive it for a shorter time, followed by a dummy treatment (placebo). Neither you nor your doctor will know which group you are in.

You will have several assessments throughout the study, including checking how well you are recovering from the infection and how you are feeling generally. This includes regular check-ups, potentially blood tests, and medical examinations. The main focus is on how you are doing 30 days after your treatment ends, which is about 37 days in total from when you start the study medication. During this time, they’ll also ask you about your quality of life and any side effects you might experience.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a study like this could potentially help future patients by finding better ways to treat candidemia. You might also receive very close medical attention during the study. However, there's always a chance that the shorter treatment might not be as effective for you, or you could experience side effects from the medication, such as caspofungin. You should know that you can choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and your medical care will not be affected.

Locations (1)

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

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Unverified
Germany

Common questions

What is candidemia?

Candidemia is a serious bloodstream infection caused by a common fungus called candida.

What is the main goal of the study?

The study aims to see if treating candidemia for a shorter time is just as good and safe as the usual longer treatment.

Will I know which treatment I'm getting?

No, neither you nor your doctors will know if you're getting the standard or shorter treatment course; this helps make the study fair.

What kind of medicines are involved?

The study uses well-known medicines like caspofungin, which is an antifungal, and also a dummy treatment (placebo).

How long does the study follow-up last?

The main follow-up period is until 30 days after your treatment ends, which is about Day 37 from the start of the study medication.