CLIMB: CNS Lymphoma Imaging and Molecular Biomarkers Study
This study, called CLIMB, is for people newly diagnosed with a type of cancer affecting the brain and spinal cord, known as CNS lymphoma. The main aim is to learn more about this disease. Researchers will use special brain scans and analyse small samples of tissue from patients. By doing this, they hope to identify important clues (called biomarkers) that can help predict how the disease might progress or respond to treatment. This understanding could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat CNS lymphoma in the future. It's an important step in finding more effective care for patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study focuses on a specific type of cancer called CNS lymphoma. This cancer affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. When you're first diagnosed with this condition, various tests are done to understand it better. This research aims to take that understanding a step further.
The researchers will be looking closely at information from special brain scans. They'll also analyse small samples of tissue from patients. By comparing these scans and tissue information with how each person's illness progresses, they hope to discover important patterns. These patterns might act as 'biomarkers' – like signposts that can tell us more about the disease.
The main goal is to find ways to predict how the disease might develop and how well different treatments might work for individual patients. This kind of research is really important because it helps doctors develop more personalised and effective treatments for CNS lymphoma in the future, ultimately improving care for people living with this condition.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to understand CNS lymphoma better.
- It uses scans and tissue samples from routine care.
- The goal is to find ways to predict disease behaviour.
- It could lead to better treatments for future patients.
- You won't receive experimental drugs as part of this study.
- Your participation is voluntary and won't affect your care.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who have been newly diagnosed with lymphoma that is only in their brain or spinal cord (CNS lymphoma).
You can’t have received any previous treatment specifically for your brain or spinal cord lymphoma. However, if you've been given steroids before, that's usually fine.
It’s important that your lymphoma hasn't spread to other parts of your body outside of your brain or spinal cord. If you're able to understand and agree to take part, that's ideal. If your illness makes it difficult to give consent yourself, a legal representative might be able to do it for you, following UK law.
- Have I been recently diagnosed with CNS lymphoma?
- Is my lymphoma only in my brain or spinal cord?
- Am I 18 years old or older?
- Have I not had any previous treatment specifically for my CNS lymphoma?
- Am I able to give consent, or does my family/representative understand the process?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
This is an 'exploratory study' and takes place at a single hospital. If you join, the study will involve collecting information from your routine brain scans. They will also look at tissue samples that would normally be taken as part of your diagnosis and initial treatment. The researchers will then analyse these to better understand your specific disease. The study will track your progress over time, looking at how long you remain free from the disease developing further. There are no extra medications given as part of this study, and the overall duration will depend on your treatment journey and follow-up, but the focus is on information gathered during your usual care.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Downs RoadSutton, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is CNS lymphoma?
It's a type of cancer that starts in the brain or spinal cord, which are parts of your central nervous system.
Will I get a new treatment in this study?
No, this study doesn't test new treatments. It focuses on understanding the disease better using existing scans and tissue samples.
Do I have to have extra procedures if I join?
The study uses information from tests (like scans and biopsies) that you would have as part of your usual care. There aren't extra procedures specifically for the study.
What happens to my medical information?
The researchers will use anonymous information from your scans and tissue to learn about the disease. Your personal details will be kept private.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can leave the study at any time, and it won't affect the medical care you receive.
How to find out more
GI and Lymphoma Unit
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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