Radiation Therapy + Fluorouracil for Rectal Cancer
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests if combining radiation therapy with chemotherapy can shrink tumors in patients with stage II or III rectal cancer. The treatment aims to make tumors smaller and easier to remove while protecting normal cells. The study will also look at the timing of treatments and their effects on surgery and recovery.
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 Radiation Therapy + Fluorouracil for Rectal Cancer?
Is the combination of radiation therapy and 5-fluorouracil safe for humans?
How is the treatment of Radiation Therapy + Fluorouracil for rectal cancer different from other treatments?
This treatment combines radiation therapy with fluorouracil (5-FU) and oxaliplatin, which may enhance the effectiveness of reducing tumor size before surgery compared to using 5-FU and radiation alone. The addition of oxaliplatin is being investigated for potentially better outcomes, although it is not yet a standard part of treatment.2351011
Research Team
Julio Garcia-Aguilar, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults with stage II or III rectal cancer, who can perform daily activities on their own or need some help (ECOG 0-1). They must have a tumor within 12 cm of the anal verge and no history of certain diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, familial adenomatous polyposis, or recent heart issues. Prior pelvic radiation treatments disqualify them. Adequate organ function and agreement to use birth control are required.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Chemoradiation
Participants undergo radiation therapy once daily 5 days a week for 5 weeks and receive fluorouracil intravenously continuously over 24 hours 7 days a week for 6 weeks
Chemotherapy
Beginning 4 weeks after completion of chemoradiation therapy, participants receive modified FOLFOX-6 chemotherapy. Treatment repeats every 14 days for 2 to 6 courses depending on the group
Surgery
Participants undergo standard surgical resection after completion of chemoradiation and chemotherapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Conventional Surgery
- Fluorouracil
- Leucovorin Calcium
- Oxaliplatin
- Radiation Therapy
Fluorouracil is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Colorectal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Skin cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator