RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

The Role of Circulating Tumour DNA in Head and Neck Cancer

This study is about developing better ways to diagnose and monitor certain throat cancers (called oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, or OPSCC). These cancers are becoming more common, especially those caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Currently, imaging methods don't always give clear answers, so doctors need more tools to make decisions. This research explores new blood tests that can find tiny bits of cancer DNA released by tumours into the bloodstream. These 'liquid biopsies' are less invasive than traditional biopsies and could help doctors track how well treatment is working, spot if the cancer is coming back early, and make better choices about patient care. The study hopes to improve outcomes for all OPSCC patients, particularly those with more aggressive forms.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Edinburgh

Enrolment target

250

Start

14 Aug 2022

Estimated completion

31 Aug 2027

Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

What is this study about?

Imagine being able to check on a cancer without needing invasive surgery, just by taking a blood sample. That's what this study is all about for a type of throat cancer called oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

OPSCC is a specific type of cancer that affects the back of your mouth and throat. It's becoming more common in Scotland and globally, partly because of its link to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). While treatments are getting better, especially for HPV-related cases, current ways of checking on the cancer often rely on scans that aren't always clear or require uncomfortable biopsies. This can make it hard for doctors to know exactly what's happening and make the best decisions for each patient.

Our research team is working on new blood tests that look for tiny pieces of cancer DNA, called circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), that tumours release into your bloodstream. By finding these DNA fragments, we hope to create a much clearer picture of the cancer's activity. This 'liquid biopsy' approach could help doctors see how well treatments are working, spot if the cancer is returning much earlier than current methods, and guide decisions on the best way to manage your care. We especially want to help patients with the more aggressive, non-HPV related OPSCC, where the outlook is currently not as good. Ultimately, we believe these blood tests could significantly improve how we diagnose, monitor, and treat OPSCC, making the process easier and more effective for patients across Scotland.

Key takeaways

New blood tests might offer a less invasive way to monitor throat cancer.
The study focuses on oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), including HPV-related cases.
Finding tiny cancer DNA in blood could help doctors track treatment and spot recurrence early.
This research aims to improve outcomes, especially for more aggressive forms of OPSCC.
Participation would involve blood samples, contributing to future cancer care improvements.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for volunteers who have been diagnosed with a specific type of throat cancer called oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). This includes patients whose cancer is linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), as well as those whose cancer is not connected to HPV.

To join, you must be 18 years old or older. You also need to be able to understand the study information and give your consent to take part.

You would not be able to join this study if you are under 18, or if you have a different type of cancer than OPSCC, or if your squamous cell carcinoma is in a different part of the body, not the oropharynx. Also, if you are unable to provide consent for any reason, you would not be able to participate.

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.

I have been diagnosed with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).
My cancer is either HPV-positive or HPV-negative.
I am 18 years of age or older.
I understand the study aims and am able to give my consent to participate.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Information about what taking part in this specific study involves, such as the number of visits, types of assessments (like blood tests or scans), any medication involved, follow-up schedule, and the total duration of your participation, is not fully detailed in the provided summary. However, based on the study's aim to use blood-based tests, it is highly likely that taking part would involve regular blood samples. These 'liquid biopsies' would be taken to trace the tiny cancer DNA fragments in your bloodstream, allowing researchers to monitor your cancer and your response to treatment. While the exact frequency of blood draws is not specified, it would align with monitoring treatment effectiveness and detecting early signs of recurrence. You would likely continue with your standard treatment plan as advised by your doctor, with the study's blood tests being an additional way to gather information.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study could offer significant benefits, mainly by helping researchers develop better and less invasive ways to monitor throat cancers, potentially leading to earlier detection of recurrence and more tailored treatments in the future. For you, this means contributing to medical knowledge that could improve care for many patients. The main risk involved would be the discomfort associated with regular blood draws, which is generally minor and temporary. There are usually no major medical risks beyond those typically associated with routine blood tests. You are always free to withdraw from the study at any time and for any reason, without it affecting your standard medical care.

Locations (5)

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

Ninewells Hospital
Verified postcode
Dundee, United Kingdom· Not yet recruiting
Summerfield House - NHS Grampian
Verified postcode
Aberdeen, United Kingdom· Not yet recruiting
Monklands Hospital ENT
Verified postcode
Airdrie, United Kingdom· Recruiting
The Royal Infirmiry
Verified postcode
Edinburgh, United Kingdom· Not yet recruiting
Glasgow Royal Infirmary
Verified postcode
Glasgow, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is OPSCC?

OPSCC is a specific type of cancer that affects the back of your mouth and throat, known as the oropharynx.

What is HPV?

HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. It's a common virus, and some types can cause certain cancers, including some OPSCCs.

What is a 'liquid biopsy'?

A 'liquid biopsy' is a blood test that looks for tiny pieces of cancer DNA that are shed by tumours into your bloodstream. It's a less invasive way to check on cancer than a surgical biopsy.

Will this study change my cancer treatment?

The study aims to develop better monitoring tools, which might lead to changes in future treatments. However, your current treatment will continue as advised by your doctor.

Is taking part painful?

Participating would likely involve regular blood tests, which usually cause only minor, temporary discomfort, similar to any other blood draw.

How to find out more

Iain Nixon

Iain.Nixon@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk 07968498525 Official trial record

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