NCT05726747 · Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
QOL and Sarcopenia in Patients With Ascites
What this study is about
Clinical data regarding quality of life in patients with refractory ascites is limited and preceded the development of newer questionnaires that may be more robust. One primary objective of this study is to study changes in quality in life in a forward-looking fashion using newer general and ascites-specific quality of life survey instruments specific to benign and malignant etiologies.
View original scientific description
Clinical data regarding quality of life in patients with refractory ascites is limited and preceded the development of newer questionnaires that may be more robust. One primary objective of this study is to study changes in quality in life in a prospective fashion using newer general and ascites-specific quality of life survey instruments specific to benign and malignant etiologies. Sarcopenia is a condition that is prevalent in cancer and cirrhosis. Current data is retrospective and associative, evaluating heterogeneous patient populations at different stages within the timeline of refractory ascites. The other primary objective of this study is to study sarcopenia in a prospective fashion and to understand its kinetics once a patient develops refractory ascites. Prospectively-obtained measures of deterioration in patient-reported outcomes and in muscle mass will form the basis for the next stage of investigation of interventions to mitigate these declines.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance score \< 3
- Refractory ascites due to cirrhosis or malignancy, requiring more than 1 therapeutic paracentesis in a 6 week period within 3 months of enrollment.
- Capable of giving informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Life expectancy less than 3 months
- Unable to participate in neuropsychological tests/questionnaires
- Pregnant or nursing women. .
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations