FDG-PET and Circulating HPV in Patients With Cervical Cancer Treated With Definitive Chemoradiation (II)
This study is for women with cervical cancer. It's looking at how well two types of tests can spot any remaining cancer cells after standard treatment with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. One test is a special scan called an FDG-PET scan, and the other is a blood test that looks for traces of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in your blood. HPV causes almost all cervical cancers. The researchers want to see if these tests can predict how well you'll recover or if the cancer might return. You'll receive the usual care for cervical cancer, and this study won't change your treatment plan.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is investigating new ways to check if cervical cancer has gone away completely after treatment. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by a virus called Human Papilloma Virus, or HPV. This virus can be found in the cancer itself and sometimes even in a blood sample. The study is particularly interested in two methods: a special scan called an FDG-PET scan, and a blood test that looks for HPV in your blood.
Previous research has suggested that an FDG-PET scan, done about three months after treatment, might help predict how well a patient will do. Also, early findings suggest that checking for HPV in the blood could be a promising way to see if the cancer has responded to treatment or if it might come back later. This study aims to gather more information to see if these tests are reliable tools for doctors.
It's important to understand that this study isn't about trying a new type of treatment. Instead, it's about improving how doctors monitor your cancer after you've had your standard care, which usually involves chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Your treatment plan will not change if you take part in this study; you'll receive the best available care for cervical cancer.
Key takeaways
- This study explores better ways to check for cervical cancer cells after treatment.
- It uses special scans (FDG-PET) and blood tests for HPV.
- You will receive your usual cervical cancer treatment; the study does not change it.
- Findings could help predict how well patients recover.
- Your participation could help improve care for future patients.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you would need to have a confirmed diagnosis of cervical cancer. This can be one of three common types: squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, or adenosquamous carcinoma. Your cancer should be at a stage where your doctors have planned for you to receive treatment with both radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
You must also be at least 18 years old. Importantly, you shouldn't have signs that your cancer has already spread to distant parts of your body. If you've already had cancer treatment for your cervical cancer, you wouldn't be able to join. Certain other medical conditions or being pregnant or breastfeeding would also mean you couldn't take part.
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.
- Do you have a confirmed diagnosis of cervical cancer?
- Are you planned to have radiotherapy and chemotherapy for your cancer?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you NOT already started treatment for this cervical cancer?
- Do you NOT have evidence of cancer spread to distant parts of your body?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will receive your standard cervical cancer treatment as planned. The study will involve having additional assessments beyond your usual care. This includes specific FDG-PET scans and blood tests, which will look for HPV. These tests will be done at different times during and after your treatment. The study aims to look at your progress over time, so you would attend several appointments for these tests. The total duration of your participation in the study would depend on the follow-up schedule set by the researchers, but it focuses on detecting leftover cancer cells after treatment.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Health Network, The Princess MargaretVerified postcodeToronto, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is HPV and why is it important for this study?
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) causes almost all cervical cancers. This study will check for traces of HPV in your blood to see if it can help doctors tell if the cancer is still there after treatment.
What is an FDG-PET scan?
An FDG-PET scan is a special type of imaging test that can highlight areas of your body where cells are very active, like cancer cells. The study uses it to see if any cancer cells remain after treatment.
Will I get a new treatment in this study?
No, this study is not testing a new treatment. You will receive the standard, recommended chemotherapy and radiotherapy for your cervical cancer. The study is about how we monitor your cancer.
Is there any radiation involved in this study?
Yes, FDG-PET scans involve a small amount of radiation, similar to other common medical scans. Your doctors will discuss this with you.
`Can I stop being part of the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can choose to stop participating in the study at any time, without it affecting your medical care or your relationship with your doctors.
How to find out more
Kathy Han, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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