Proton Beam Therapy for Esophageal Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The investigators plan to include both operable and inoperable patients with esophagus cancer in this prospective trial. Since both proton and photon treatments are biologically equivalent, the investigators do not expect a difference in tumor control compared to intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). The investigators have a prospective experience of physician-reported toxicity and patient outcome using IMRT for patients with inoperable esophagus cancer that will serve as a comparison group. For the resectable patients receiving trimodality therapy (chemoradiation followed by surgery), the investigators will carefully track toxicity and patient outcomes prospectively. The central hypothesis is that the biologic efficacy for tumor control should be similar between protons and photons, and therefore survival measures should be similar between the two groups, but that the main difference lies in the total severe toxicities experienced by the patients undergoing 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. However, since induction chemotherapy is allowed, it might be possible to continue some treatments. Please consult with the trial coordinators for specific guidance.
Is proton beam therapy generally safe for humans?
How is Proton Beam Therapy different from other treatments for esophageal cancer?
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Proton Beam Therapy for esophageal cancer?
Proton Beam Therapy (PBT) is promising for esophageal cancer as it reduces radiation exposure to nearby organs, potentially improving outcomes compared to traditional methods. Studies suggest PBT, especially when combined with chemotherapy, may offer better results and fewer side effects than photon-based radiotherapy.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Gregory Vlacich, M.D., Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Washington University School of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with stage II or III esophageal cancer who can consent in English and have financial coverage for proton therapy. They must not be pregnant, agree to use contraception, and have normal organ function. Excluded are those with recent heart attacks, uncontrolled illnesses, or other cancers within the past 3 years.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Chemoradiation
Participants receive proton beam therapy and standard of care chemotherapy
Surgery
Surgery is performed for resectable patients following chemoradiation
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Proton Beam Therapy
Proton Beam Therapy is already approved in United States, European Union, Japan, Canada for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Washington University School of Medicine
Lead Sponsor