Rhenium-Skin Cancer Therapy (SCT) for the Treatment of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer.
This is a UK study investigating a new treatment called Rhenium-Skin Cancer Therapy (SCT) for people with common types of skin cancer, known as non-melanoma skin cancer. The study is particularly interested in how effective this personalised treatment is. It's an open-label study, meaning both you and your doctors will know you are receiving this specific treatment. The study aims to gather more information about how well this treatment works in a larger, real-world group of patients across different centres. It's for adults aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with early-stage skin cancer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is called the Rhenium-Skin Cancer Therapy (SCT) trial. It's looking into a new treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer, which is the most common type of skin cancer. This treatment uses something called Rhenium-SCT. The main goal is to find out how effective this treatment is for people with this type of skin cancer.
Non-melanoma skin cancer typically grows on areas of your body that get a lot of sun, like your face, ears, neck, and hands. While not usually life-threatening, it's important to treat it to stop it from growing and causing problems. This study is focusing on specific types of non-melanoma skin cancer that are in their early stages (Stage I or II).
Essentially, the researchers want to collect more information about how well Rhenium-SCT works for a variety of people, including those who might not be able to have surgery or other common treatments. It's hoped that this personalised treatment could offer another option for patients.
Key takeaways
- Looks at a new treatment (Rhenium-SCT) for common skin cancers.
- For early-stage non-melanoma skin cancer (BCC or SCC).
- Especially for those who can't have or don't want surgery.
- Treatment is applied directly to the skin cancer.
- Aims to understand how effective the treatment is in a wider group of patients.
- Participation requires being at least 18 years old and giving informed consent.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you would generally need to have a type of non-melanoma skin cancer (either BCC or SCC that is well to moderately differentiated) that is in an early stage and hasn't spread to your lymph nodes. The cancer would need to be officially confirmed by a biopsy, and your doctor would need to know how deep it is. You also need to be at least 18 years old and able to understand and agree to take part in the study.
Specifically, the skin cancer lesion should be no larger than 8 square centimetres and no deeper than 3 millimetres. The study is particularly for people who might not be suitable for surgery – perhaps because of where the cancer is on their body, their general health, or other medical conditions. It also includes people who have chosen not to have surgery or standard radiation therapy.
There are also reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you can't give informed consent, or if you've had previous surgery or radiation treatment for the specific skin cancer being studied. Certain skin conditions like Lupus or Scleroderma, or other medical conditions such as active cancer treatment or pregnancy, would also mean you couldn't take part. Also, if the cancer affects certain sensitive areas like the inner corner of the eye or lip, or if it involves nerves or bones, you wouldn't be able to join.
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 I have early-stage Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) or well/moderately differentiated Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)?
- Has my skin cancer been confirmed by a doctor, and do they know how deep it is?
- Am I at least 18 years old?
- Is my skin cancer lesion no larger than 8 square centimetres and no deeper than 3 millimetres?
- Am I unable to have surgery for my skin cancer, or have I decided not to have surgery/radiation?
- Have I NOT had surgery or radiation therapy on this specific skin cancer lesion before?
What does participation involve?
This part of the study is called a 'single arm' study, meaning everyone involved will receive the Rhenium-SCT treatment. Since it's a 'Phase IV' study, the treatment has already been approved and is being used, but researchers want to gather more information about its effectiveness in a wider group of patients. You would have your skin cancer treated with Rhenium-SCT. The study is 'open label', which means both you and your care team will know you are receiving this treatment. You would need to attend appointments for the treatment and follow-up checks, and researchers would monitor your progress over time to see how the treatment works for you. The exact number of visits, assessments, and the overall duration of your participation would be fully explained by the study team if you are eligible and interested.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (7)
- Genesis Care Health Hub at RNSVerified postcodeSydney, Australia
- John Flynn HospitalVerified postcodeTugun, Australia
- Hollywood PrivateVerified postcodePerth, Australia
- Klinik OttakringVerified postcodeOttakring, Austria
- Rostock University HospitalVerified postcodeRostock, Germany
- Steve Beko HospitalVerified postcodePretoria, South Africa
- Kings College Hospital LondonVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is Rhenium-SCT?
Rhenium-SCT is a specific treatment being studied for non-melanoma skin cancer. It's a way of treating the cancer directly on the skin.
What is non-melanoma skin cancer?
This is the most common type of skin cancer, usually found on areas of your body exposed to the sun. It includes types like Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC).
What does 'Phase IV' study mean?
A Phase IV study means the treatment has already been approved for use, and researchers are gathering more information about how it works in real-world patients and its long-term effects.
What if I've had surgery for my skin cancer before?
If you've had surgery or radiation therapy for the specific skin cancer lesion being looked at in this study, you wouldn't be able to participate.
Can I take part if I'm pregnant?
No, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you would not be able to join this study for safety reasons.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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