Immunization Response for Childhood Cancer Survivors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effectiveness of new vaccinations for children who have survived cancer. Cancer treatment can alter the body's vaccine response, so the study aims to determine the best way to protect these children from diseases like measles, mumps, and whooping cough. The trial uses different vaccination schedules based on age groups. It suits children diagnosed with cancer before age 18 who completed chemotherapy within the past 3 to 24 months. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, providing an opportunity to contribute to important findings.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on immunosuppressive drugs, you cannot participate in the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this immunization schedule is likely to be safe for childhood cancer survivors?
Research has shown that vaccines are generally safe and effective for children, including those who have had cancer. Most pediatric cancer doctors recommend restarting vaccinations about 6 months to a year after chemotherapy, allowing the immune system time to recover from cancer treatment.
One study found that many children who have survived cancer can catch up on their vaccinations without major problems. Today's vaccines are designed to be safe and work by targeting substances that trigger an immune response. While vaccines are usually well-tolerated, they can cause mild side effects like soreness at the injection site or a slight fever. These effects are generally minor and temporary.
Overall, strong evidence supports the safety of vaccinations in children, including those recovering from cancer.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a tailored immunization schedule specifically for childhood cancer survivors, a group that often has unique health needs due to their previous treatments. Unlike standard immunization schedules designed for the general population, this approach accounts for the compromised immune systems many survivors may have. By testing different schedules based on age groups, this trial aims to ensure that these young survivors receive the most effective protection possible, ultimately improving their long-term health outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this immunization schedule is effective for childhood cancer survivors?
Research shows that vaccines can be effective for childhood cancer survivors. For instance, one study found that vaccinating children three months after completing cancer treatment helped most develop protection against diseases like measles, mumps, and whooping cough. In this trial, participants will follow an age-based immunization schedule to aid protection after cancer treatment. Many children resume vaccinations after chemotherapy, although timing can vary. These findings support a planned vaccination schedule to protect children post-cancer treatment.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Nancy Kernan, MD
Principal Investigator
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for childhood cancer survivors aged 3 to 24 months post-chemotherapy, under 18 at diagnosis. They must be in remission with no active infections or HIV, not pregnant or breastfeeding, and able to consent. Excluded are those with low Karnofsky scores, prior stem cell transplants, vaccine allergies, on immunosuppressants, allergic to latex or who've had Rituximab.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Immunization
Participants receive new immunizations to evaluate their body's response and protection against diseases like measles, mumps, and whooping cough
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness of the immunizations after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Immunization Schedule
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor