Topotecan Episcleral Plaque for Retinoblastoma
(STEP-RB Trial)
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify if you must stop taking your current medications, but you cannot receive chemotherapy or other retinoblastoma treatments within 3 weeks of the study treatment. It's best to discuss your current medications with the study team.
What data supports the effectiveness of the Topotecan Episcleral Plaque treatment for retinoblastoma?
Research shows that topotecan, when used in different forms, has been effective in treating retinoblastoma. For example, a study found that intravitreal topotecan led to the complete disappearance of retinal tumors in children with retinoblastoma, and another study showed that topotecan combined with other drugs helped preserve vision and avoid more invasive treatments.12345
Is Topotecan Episcleral Plaque safe for use in humans?
How is the Topotecan Episcleral Plaque treatment different from other retinoblastoma treatments?
The Topotecan Episcleral Plaque treatment is unique because it involves delivering the drug topotecan directly to the eye using a plaque, which may allow for targeted treatment of retinoblastoma with potentially fewer side effects compared to systemic chemotherapy. This method is different from traditional treatments that often involve systemic administration or other local delivery methods like intravitreal injections.12367
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment for children with eye cancer that hasn't fully responded to other treatments. It uses a small device placed on the eye to slowly release a cancer-fighting drug directly where it's needed.
Research Team
Brenda Gallie
Principal Investigator
The Hospital for Sick Children
Eligibility Criteria
Children under 18 with active residual or recurrent retinoblastoma in one eye after first-line therapy, or those newly diagnosed with certain types of retinoblastoma without prior treatment. They must have good organ function and performance status, and girls able to have children must use effective birth control. Kids can't join if they have cancer spread outside the eye, allergies to topotecan, other treatments within 3 weeks before the trial starts, uncontrolled illnesses, or are pregnant/breastfeeding.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive the Chemoplaque for sustained-release topotecan delivery to treat retinoblastoma
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after Chemoplaque removal
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Topotecan Episcleral Plaque
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The Hospital for Sick Children
Lead Sponsor