Eribulin for Hemangiosarcoma and Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests Eribulin (also known as Halaven), a drug that may help treat two rare types of cancer: Angiosarcoma and Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma (EHE). The goal is to determine if Eribulin can effectively manage these cancers, especially for those who haven't succeeded with other treatments. People with advanced stages of these cancers who have tried at least one other treatment and still experience disease progression might be suitable for this study. Participants will receive Eribulin intravenously in a set cycle to monitor its effects.
As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring how well the treatment works in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you cannot participate if you have had chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or certain other treatments within a few weeks before starting the trial. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this treatment is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that Eribulin has been studied for its safety in people with cancer. In earlier studies involving patients with various cancer types, common side effects included low white blood cell counts (neutropenia), tiredness, hair loss, and anemia (low red blood cell count). These side effects occurred in more than 25% of patients.
While researchers are testing Eribulin for Angiosarcoma and Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma, the FDA has already approved it for other cancers. This approval indicates that its safety is somewhat understood. However, reactions to the treatment can vary among individuals. Before joining a trial, discussing potential risks with a healthcare professional is advisable.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for angiosarcoma or epithelioid hemangioendothelioma?
Eribulin is unique because it targets cancer cells by inhibiting their microtubule dynamics, which is crucial for cell division. Unlike the standard chemotherapy options for hemangiosarcoma and epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, which often involve drugs like doxorubicin or ifosfamide, Eribulin is derived from a marine sponge, offering a novel mechanism of action. Researchers are excited about Eribulin because it has shown promise in other types of cancer for improving survival rates, and it could offer a new, effective option for patients with these rare and aggressive vascular tumors.
What evidence suggests that Eribulin might be an effective treatment for Angiosarcoma or Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma?
Research has shown that Eribulin, the treatment under study in this trial, may help treat angiosarcoma and epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE). In studies, about 7.5% of patients experienced tumor shrinkage, known as a partial response. Additionally, 34.5% of patients maintained stable disease, meaning their cancer did not progress during the study. Eribulin stops cancer cells from dividing, potentially slowing or halting tumor growth. These findings suggest that Eribulin could effectively manage these rare cancers.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Gregory Cote, MD
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts General Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with advanced angiosarcoma or epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) who've had at least one prior treatment. They must have measurable disease, a life expectancy over three months, and normal organ/marrow function. Women of childbearing age and men must use contraception. Those with brain metastases, certain heart conditions, or uncontrolled illnesses can't join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Eribulin administered twice per cycle intravenously, with each cycle containing 21 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Long-term follow-up
Participants are monitored for treatment-related adverse events
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Eribulin
Eribulin is already approved in European Union, United States, Japan, Canada for the following indications:
- Locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer
- Metastatic breast cancer
- Liposarcoma
- Breast cancer
- Soft tissue sarcoma
- Metastatic breast cancer
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor
Eisai Inc.
Industry Sponsor
Lynn Kramer
Eisai Inc.
Chief Medical Officer since 2019
MD
Tatsuyuki Yasuno
Eisai Inc.
Chief Executive Officer since 2023
MBA from Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University; Bachelor of Political Science from Waseda University