Steroid Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer-Related Cranial Neuropathy
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This phase I/II trial studies the side effect and best dose of steroid therapy (prednisone or methylprednisolone) in improving symptoms of late radiation-associated lower cranial neuropathy in oropharyngeal cancer survivors. Steroid therapy with prednisone or methylprednisolone may help to improve symptoms associated with late radiation-associated lower cranial neuropathy.
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.
Is steroid therapy generally safe for humans?
How does the drug Methylprednisolone, Prednisone differ from other treatments for head and neck cancer-related cranial neuropathy?
This drug is unique because it involves the use of steroids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and may help reduce symptoms by decreasing inflammation around nerves. While there are no standard treatments specifically for head and neck cancer-related cranial neuropathy, steroids like Methylprednisolone and Prednisone have shown effectiveness in other neuropathic and inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential benefits for this condition.12467
Research Team
Katherine A Hutcheson, BA,MS,PHD
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adult survivors of oropharyngeal cancer who are disease-free, treated with radiotherapy at least 2 years ago, and suffering from late radiation-associated lower cranial neuropathy. Participants must be able to complete a symptom survey in one of several languages and return for post-therapy assessment. Those with uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, psychosis, gastrointestinal ulcers, bipolar disorder or pregnant women cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Patients receive prednisone orally or by feeding tube once daily on days 1-5 and then taper off over 2 weeks or methylprednisolone intravenously over 1 hour on days 1-5
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with assessments of patient-reported outcomes and imaging studies
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Methylprednisolone
- Prednisone
Methylprednisolone is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Allergic reactions
- Blood disorders
- Cancer
- Eye diseases
- Immune system disorders
- Inflammatory diseases
- Respiratory diseases
- Skin diseases
- Allergic reactions
- Blood disorders
- Cancer
- Eye diseases
- Immune system disorders
- Inflammatory diseases
- Respiratory diseases
- Skin diseases
- Allergic reactions
- Blood disorders
- Cancer
- Eye diseases
- Immune system disorders
- Inflammatory diseases
- Respiratory diseases
- Skin diseases
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator