IMRT vs Proton Radiation Therapy for Sinonasal Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores two types of radiation therapy, Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and proton radiation, to determine which is more effective with fewer side effects for treating advanced sinonasal cancer. The goal is to identify whether one therapy controls the cancer more effectively without causing additional harm. Individuals with locally advanced sinonasal cancer, particularly those with tumors involving the nasal cavity, sinuses, or surrounding areas, may be suitable candidates. The study will use either IMRT or proton therapy, depending on the technology available at the treatment center. As an unphased trial, this study allows patients to contribute to important research that could enhance future cancer treatments.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that these radiation therapy techniques are safe for sinonasal cancer?
Research has shown that both proton radiation therapy and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) are well-tolerated treatments for sinonasal cancer. Proton therapy is a safe and effective choice for sinonasal tumors, with side effects similar to other treatments and manageable in both the short and long term.
Similarly, IMRT is a safe and effective method for treating sinonasal cancer. Studies indicate that it produces good results without causing serious long-term side effects, and most patients tolerate it well.
In summary, research demonstrates that both proton radiation therapy and IMRT are safe, with manageable side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for sinonasal cancer because they offer advanced ways to target tumors with precision. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) uses sophisticated technology to shape radiation beams, focusing on the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Proton radiation therapy, on the other hand, uses protons instead of X-rays, delivering radiation with pinpoint accuracy and potentially reducing side effects even further. Both techniques aim to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients compared to traditional radiation therapy, which is less precise in sparing healthy tissues.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for sinonasal cancer?
This trial will compare Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with Proton radiation therapy for treating sinonasal cancer. Research has shown that proton radiation therapy can effectively control sinonasal cancer over the long term. In one study, 77.5% of patients were alive three years after receiving proton therapy, and 59.6% did not experience cancer progression during this period. Proton therapy is generally well-tolerated and has improved outcomes compared to traditional radiation methods.
Similarly, intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) effectively treats sinonasal cancer. Studies have shown that 64% of patients did not develop distant cancer spread within three years, and 81% were still alive. IMRT is known for being both effective and safe, with good survival rates and few long-term side effects. Both treatments have shown promising results, but this trial aims to provide more clarity on which is better.12467Who Is on the Research Team?
Annie W. Chan
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts General Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients with advanced sinonasal cancers, including various carcinoma types and melanoma. Participants must have a good performance status, meaning they can carry out daily activities with little or no assistance. They should also have normal organ function and no history of allergic reactions to similar chemotherapy drugs if receiving chemotherapy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive daily proton or IMRT radiation therapy, with optional concurrent standard chemotherapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Intensity-modulated radiotherapy
- Proton radiation therapy
Intensity-modulated radiotherapy is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada, Japan, China, Switzerland for the following indications:
- Head and neck cancers
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Breast cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator