Radiation Therapy for Carcinoid Tumors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new approach to treat hard-to-remove neuroendocrine tumors in the digestive system. It combines two treatments: precise radiation therapy (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy) and a radioactive drug that targets tumor cells (Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate). The researchers aim to determine if adding radiation therapy before the drug enhances safety and effectiveness compared to the drug alone. This trial may suit individuals with large neuroendocrine tumors that have not responded well to one or two prior treatments and cannot be surgically removed. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants a chance to be among the first to receive this innovative therapy.
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 this combination of SBRT and 177Lu-DOTATATE is safe for treating neuroendocrine tumors?
Research has shown that both treatments in this trial have been studied for safety in humans.
Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate is already used for certain neuroendocrine tumors and has been administered to over 1,200 patients in various studies. It is generally well-tolerated, though some people have experienced side effects like nausea and tiredness. Research found it remained safe even when patients received it again after their disease worsened.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) is also known to be safe. It targets tumors precisely, which helps protect healthy tissue. Studies have shown it is a good option for patients with certain lung tumors, offering effective treatment with manageable side effects.
Overall, while both treatments have been shown to be safe in other studies, this trial will help confirm their safety when used together.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments because they combine two innovative approaches for treating carcinoid tumors. Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate is a radiolabeled therapy that specifically targets tumor cells by binding to somatostatin receptors, delivering radiation directly to the cancer and sparing surrounding healthy tissue. Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), on the other hand, is a precise form of radiation that delivers high doses directly to the tumor with minimal impact on nearby organs. This combination aims to enhance effectiveness by maximizing tumor destruction while minimizing side effects, potentially offering a more targeted and efficient alternative to traditional treatments like surgery and conventional radiation therapy.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for neuroendocrine tumors?
In this trial, participants will receive a combination of Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate (177Lu-DOTATATE) and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT). Studies have shown that 177Lu-DOTATATE effectively treats neuroendocrine tumors by extending the time patients live without tumor progression. It targets specific parts of tumor cells and delivers radiation directly to them. Meanwhile, SBRT shows promise by focusing high doses of radiation precisely on tumors while sparing healthy tissue. Research indicates that SBRT effectively stops tumors from growing in the treated area. Together, these treatments may offer a better chance of controlling tumors that cannot be removed by surgery.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Pretesh Patel, MD
Principal Investigator
Emory University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients with large, well-differentiated grade 1-2 gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors that can't be surgically removed. Details about specific inclusion and exclusion criteria are not provided, but typically participants would need to meet certain health standards and may be excluded based on factors like other medical conditions or treatments.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Radiation
Participants undergo stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) over 5 fractions
Treatment
Participants receive 177Lu-DOTATATE intravenously once every 8 weeks for 4 doses
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Emory University
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator