NCT03858205 · University of Southern California
Low-Dose Radiotherapy in Treating Painful Bone Metastases in Patients With Multiple Myeloma
What this study is about
This phase II trial studies how well low-dose radiotherapy works in treating bone pain in patients with multiple myeloma that has spread to the bone. Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, or other sources to kill tumor cells and shrink tumors.
View original scientific description
This phase II trial studies how well low-dose radiotherapy works in treating bone pain in patients with multiple myeloma that has spread to the bone. Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, or other sources to kill tumor cells and shrink tumors. Low-dose radiotherapy may be more convenient for patients and their families, may not interfere as much with the timing of chemotherapy, and may have less chance for short term or long-term side effects from the radiation.
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
- Histologic diagnosis of multiple myeloma
- Painful bone metastasis (index lesion) that has a radiographic correlate
- Patient may have had any number of prior chemotherapy/immunotherapy regimens (changes to systemic therapy or use of bisphosphonates for 4 weeks before and after RT are allowed, but recording of these changes must be made so it can be accounted for)
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) 0-2
- Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) score \>= 2
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Patients will be ineligible if the index lesion has received prior radiation therapy or prior palliative surgery. Patients may have received prior palliative or primary radiotherapy or surgery to other parts of the body, as long as the index lesion was not in the prior radiation fields and has not received prior palliative surgery
- Patients will also be ineligible if there is pathologic fracture or impending fracture at the site of the index lesion or planned surgical fixation of the bone at the index lesion
- Patients with clinical or radiographic evidence of spinal cord or cauda equina compression/effacement from the index lesion, and/or with index lesions located at the skull base or orbital lesions
- Patients must not be pregnant
Where
- Duarte, California
- Los Angeles, California
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- New York, New York
- 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 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations