Sepsis in Oncology Patients
This study, called "Sepsis in Oncology Patients", aims to understand why cancer patients are more likely to get a serious bloodstream infection called sepsis. Normally, clinical trials test new treatments, but this study doesn’t involve any new medicines or interventions; it simply observes patients. The researchers want to discover how the immune system in cancer patients behaves when they get sepsis. They plan to collect blood and tissue samples to look at genetic information and how immune cells work. By understanding this better, they hope to find new ways to help cancer patients recover from sepsis in the future. They will also look at specific groups, such as those with certain tummy cancers or blood cancers, before they start intensive treatments.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When people have cancer, their bodies can sometimes struggle to fight off infections, making them more likely to get very sick. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition where the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs. This study aims to help us understand why cancer patients are so vulnerable to sepsis and how their immune systems react when it happens. The researchers aren't testing any new treatments or giving participants any medicine; instead, they are carefully observing and collecting information.
The main goal is to look closely at the immune system of cancer patients with sepsis. This means studying things like their genes (DNA), the activity of their cells (RNA), and how their white blood cells — which are a key part of the immune system — are working. By gathering this detailed information, scientists hope to build a clearer picture of what makes some cancer patients more susceptible to sepsis and why some recover better than others.
They are particularly interested in two groups: patients with upper digestive system cancers (like oesophageal cancer) and patients with blood cancers (like leukaemia) who are having stem cell transplants. By looking at these groups both before and after major treatments, the study hopes to find out if there are specific factors that make people more at risk of sepsis. Ultimately, this research could pave the way for better ways to prevent and treat sepsis in cancer patients, improving their chances of recovery.
Key takeaways
- This study observes cancer patients with sepsis; it’s not a treatment trial.
- Aims to understand how the immune system of cancer patients reacts to sepsis.
- Will collect blood and tissue samples to study genes and cell activity.
- Focuses on patients in intensive care with sepsis, and specific cancer patients before major treatment.
- Information gathered could help develop better treatments for sepsis in the future.
- No new medicines or procedures are involved; risks are minimal.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for two main types of participants. The first group includes adult cancer patients (aged 18 or older) who are currently in intensive care because they have developed sepsis. For these patients, if they are able, they'll be asked to give their consent to take part. If they're too unwell, a family member or close friend might give consent for them, or consent might be sought later when they are better.
The second group of participants are adult cancer patients (aged 18 or older) who are about to have specific major treatments. This includes those having surgery for upper digestive system cancers or those with blood cancers who are about to have a stem cell transplant. These patients must be able to give their own consent because they are not acutely unwell.
There are also some reasons why people might not be able to join. For example, if a patient in intensive care is very close to the end of their life, they would not be included. Also, people who have decisions in place to limit their treatment or organ support (often known as palliative care patients) cannot take part in the elective section of the study.
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 currently have sepsis and are in intensive care, or are you a cancer patient about to undergo major surgery for upper digestive cancer or a stem cell transplant for blood cancer?
- Are you able to give consent to participate, or (if you are too unwell) can a close family member give consent on your behalf?
- Do you not have any existing limitations on your medical treatment or organ support (e.g., palliative care exclusions for the elective group)?
What does participation involve?
As this is an observational study, you wouldn't be given any new treatments or medicines. Instead, if you're in the intensive care group, researchers would collect blood and tissue samples as part of your routine care for sepsis. If you're in the group having planned cancer treatment, samples would be collected before your surgery or transplant, and potentially again during your treatment course. The researchers would also gather information about your health and medical history.
There are no extra hospital visits required beyond your normal medical care. The length of time you'd be involved depends on your condition and ongoing treatment, but the study focuses on collecting information at specific points during your care. The goal is to collect existing samples and data, not to add burdens to your hospital stay.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is sepsis?
Sepsis is a serious condition where your body's reaction to an infection causes damage to your own organs and tissues. It needs urgent medical attention.
Am I being given any new medicine?
No, this study is 'observational'. This means researchers are just watching and collecting information; you won't be given any new medicines or treatments.
Why are cancer patients included?
Cancer patients can be more prone to infections and sepsis. This study wants to understand why, by looking at their immune systems more closely.
Will I have extra tests?
You might have some extra blood or tissue samples taken, but these are often done at the same time as samples needed for your regular medical care to avoid extra inconvenience.
Can I stop participating if I change my mind?
Yes, absolutely. You can withdraw from the study at any time, and it will not affect the medical care you receive in any way.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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