NRG-HN001: Individualized Treatment for Nasopharyngeal Cancer Based on the Patient’s DNA

NRG-HN001 is a clinical trial that is studying how people with nasopharyngeal cancer (in the head and neck region), which has not spread to other parts of the body, respond to different types or levels of chemotherapy, based on a specific DNA viral marker in the blood called the Epstein Barr virus (EBV). Studies have shown an association between the level of EBV DNA found in a patient’s blood and tumor recurrence after chemo-radiation in people with nasopharyngeal cancer. Thus, doctors are investigating whether an individualized treatment plan could be developed using the patient’s EBV DNA as a guide.

If you agree to take part in this study, the EBV DNA level in your blood will be measured before any treatment. If your blood does not have any EBV DNA, you will not be eligible for the study. However, your doctor will discuss other treatment options with you.

There is also an optional Quality of Life study that participants of this trial can partake in. Quality of Life studies allow researchers to learn more about how your cancer treatment affects you. If you choose to participate in this part of the study, you will be asked to fill out forms regarding your physical and emotional well-being, and your general health at various time points before, during, and after treatment.

This study closed to patient enrollment on July 21, 2023.

More information about this particular study is located on ClinicalTrials.gov