NCT07147179 · Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
Short Course Radiotherapy
What this study is about
This is a single treatment group$1 forward-looking pilot trial determining the safety of short-course radiation therapy in pediatric patients with incurable central nervous system malignancies.
View original scientific description
This is a single arm prospective pilot trial determining the safety of short-course radiation therapy in pediatric patients with incurable central nervous system malignancies.
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
- Male or female, aged 21 years or below
- Lansky performance status \>= 40
- Has a diagnosis of an incurable malignancy that:
- Originates outside the brain but is metastatic to 1 or more sites within the brain, or originates and recurs within the brain. For this diagnosis to be confirmed, there must be multidisciplinary review of up to date imaging at a pediatric tumor board with unanimous consensus of intracranial relapse or metastasis. If the consensus is not unanimous, short-interval repeat imaging with subsequent unanimous consensus would be required in order for this eligibility criteria to be met
- Has at least 1 targetable intracranial lesion as seen on imaging
- Has a multidisciplinary consensus recommendation for palliative intent radiation
- Consents to the study or has caregiver who is able to provide signed and dated informed consent. For subjects under the age of 18, a signed and dated assent form as able.
- Patients who had prior radiation in planned treatment area are also eligible to enter the trial
- Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study
Exclusion criteria
- Radiotherapy for curative intent
- Serious uncontrolled systemic or psychiatric disorders that would interfere with participation in the protocol
- Being planned for proton radiation
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 May 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations