Proton Radiotherapy for Pediatric Brain Cancer
Trial Summary
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 data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Proton radiotherapy for pediatric brain cancer?
Proton radiotherapy is effective for treating pediatric brain cancer because it can target tumors more precisely, reducing damage to healthy tissues and lowering the risk of side effects. Studies show that it offers better protection for developing tissues compared to traditional radiation, which is especially important for children.12345
Is proton radiotherapy safe for children with brain cancer?
Proton radiotherapy is generally considered safe for children with brain cancer, with studies showing good outcomes and a lower risk of side effects compared to traditional radiation. However, there are some risks, such as brainstem injury and moyamoya syndrome, which is a rare blood vessel disorder, especially in younger children.16789
How is proton radiotherapy different from other treatments for pediatric brain cancer?
Proton radiotherapy is unique because it uses protons instead of traditional X-rays (photons) to target tumors, allowing for more precise delivery of radiation that spares healthy tissues. This reduces the risk of long-term side effects and secondary cancers, which is particularly important for children.310111213
What is the purpose of this trial?
Some patients with brain tumors receive standard radiation to help prevent tumor growth. Although standard radiation kills tumor cells, it can also damage normal tissue in the process and lead to more side effects. This research study is looking at a different form of radiation called proton radiotherapy which helps spare normal tissues while delivering radiation to the tumor or tumor bed. Proton techniques irradiate 2-3 times less normal tissue then standard radiation. This therapy has been used in treatment of other cancers and information from those other research studies suggests that this therapy may help better target brain tumors then standard radiation.
Research Team
Torunn Yock, MD
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts General Hospital
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for children and young adults aged 1-25 with certain brain tumors (like high-grade glioma, but not GBM, or non-disseminated ATRT) who haven't had radiotherapy in the same area before. They should have a life expectancy over a year and be willing to use contraception if applicable. It's not for those with metastases, uncontrolled illnesses that could affect participation, pregnant/breastfeeding women, or those unable to contribute to neurocognitive outcomes.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Proton Radiotherapy
Participants receive proton radiotherapy 5 days per week at the Francis H. Burr Proton Therapy Center. The duration depends on tumor type, location, and treatment tolerance.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for neurocognitive, neuroendocrine, and ototoxicity outcomes, as well as disease control and auditory function.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Proton radiotherapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Collaborator