Targeted Radiation + Drug Therapy for Breast Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new approach for treating breast cancer that has spread to a few specific areas. It combines targeted radiation therapy, known as Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), with the patient's usual drug treatment. The goal is to determine if this combination can prevent the cancer from worsening or spreading further. Suitable candidates have breast cancer that has spread but have maintained a stable response to drug treatment for at least six months, with only one area showing signs of worsening. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
No, you will not have to stop taking your current medications. Participants will stay on their usual drug therapy while receiving the targeted radiation treatment.
What prior data suggests that Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy is safe for treating oligometastatic breast cancer?
Research shows that stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is a safe treatment for breast cancer that has spread to a few other areas. Studies have found that SBRT is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't involve surgery, and patients generally tolerate it well. One study found that SBRT effectively targets and treats the cancer site without causing major problems. Although some evidence remains limited, SBRT is already used for this type of cancer and can delay the need to change other cancer treatments by over a year. Overall, SBRT appears to be a safe option for many patients dealing with certain types of breast cancer spread.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatment for breast cancer?
Researchers are excited about using stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for breast cancer because it offers precision targeting of cancerous lesions. Unlike traditional radiation, which can affect a broader area and sometimes healthy tissue, SBRT focuses high-dose radiation directly on the tumor, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy cells. This precision is particularly beneficial for patients with oligometastatic breast cancer, where the cancer has spread to a limited number of sites. By integrating SBRT with ongoing systemic therapy, the treatment aims to effectively control isolated tumor progression while maintaining the overall regimen that the body is already responding to, potentially improving outcomes without significantly increasing side effects.
What evidence suggests that Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy might be an effective treatment for oligometastatic breast cancer?
Research shows that stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) can benefit patients with oligometastatic breast cancer, where the cancer has spread but not extensively. In this trial, participants with oligometastatic breast cancer will receive SBRT targeting the progressive lesion identified on imaging while continuing their current systemic therapy. Studies suggest that SBRT might extend survival for patients with this cancer type. One study found that SBRT delayed the need to change drug treatments, particularly for patients with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Another study demonstrated that SBRT was effective for cancer that had spread to only a few areas. Overall, SBRT appears promising in slowing cancer growth and improving outcomes for patients with metastatic breast cancer.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Amy Xu, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with metastatic breast cancer who've had a good response to drug therapy for at least 6 months. It's open to those with certain hormone receptor statuses, able to consent, and have only one site of disease progression visible on a scan. Pregnant individuals, those with previous radiation at the target site or brain involvement, and serious medical conditions that conflict with radiation are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Radiation
Participants receive Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) to a single metastatic site while maintaining their usual drug therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for progression free survival and other outcomes after SBRT
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Stereotactic body radiotherapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor