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NCT07178301 · Northwestern University

Evaluating a Decreased Dose of Radiation Therapy to the Elective Neck for the Treatment of HPV-Related Oropharyngeal Cancer, ENLIGHT Trial

What this study is about

This clinical trial evaluates how decreasing the dose of radiation to the elective neck (areas of lymph nodes not directly involved in the cancer) impacts treatment outcomes in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer. Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

View original scientific description

This clinical trial evaluates how decreasing the dose of radiation to the elective neck (areas of lymph nodes not directly involved in the cancer) impacts treatment outcomes in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer. Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy plays an important role in the treatment of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, but it also causes significant toxicities. Given the significant toxicities associated with treatment, and the excellent outcomes of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, researchers are attempting to identify methods to de-escalate treatment for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer in an effort to maintain excellent treatment outcomes while reducing the risk of toxicities. Reducing the dose of radiation therapy to the lymph nodes in the neck that aren't directly involved in the cancer may improve patient quality of life while still maintaining excellent rates of cure of disease.

Interventions

PROCEDURE

Computed Tomography

Undergo CT

PROCEDURE

Nasopharyngeal Laryngoscopy

Undergo nasopharyngolaryngoscopy

PROCEDURE

Positron Emission Tomography

Undergo PET

OTHER

Questionnaire Administration

Ancillary studies

RADIATION

Radiation Therapy

Undergo radiation therapy

Primary outcome measures

2-year locoregional progression free survival

Time frame: From the beginning of radiation therapy to the first incidence of local recurrence, regional recurrence in the neck, or death, assessed at 2 years post-treatment

Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1 will be used to assess tumor response. The 2-year progression free survival (PFS) estimate will be reported along with the confidence interval. Log-rank tests will be used to compare PFS across predefined subgroups. Cox proportional hazards models will be applied to assess the impact of covariates such as age, sex, baseline disease severity on PFS, when appropriate.

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

  • 1.1 Patients must have a histologically confirmed HPV-related OPSCC, confirmed by HPV insitu hybridization.
  • 1.2 Patients must not have received prior treatment (i.e., no induction chemotherapy).
  • 1.3 Patients must have evaluable disease (per RECIST v1.1 response criteria). See Section 6.
  • 3 for the evaluation of measurable disease.
  • 1.4 Patients must be age ≥ 18 years.
  • 1.5 Patients must have AJCC 8 th edition Stage I-II disease, as defined by a T-classification of T1-3, and N-classification of N1-2, without metastases (M0), as defined by physical examination (including nasopharyngolaryngoscopy) and positron emission tomography (PET)
  • 1.6 Patient must receive a staging PET scan prior to registration on study.
  • 1.7 Patients must exhibit an ECOG performance status of 0-1. Please refer to Appendix A ECOG Performance Status Scale.
  • 1.8 Patients may be planned to undergo RT alone or RT with concurrent chemotherapy, with chemotherapy managed at the discretion of the treating medical oncologist per standard of care.
  • 1.9 RT is known to be teratogenic to a developing human fetus. For this reason, patients of child-bearing potential (POCBP) must agree to use adequate contraception (hormonal or barrier method of birth control; abstinence) from time of informed consent, for the duration of study participation (while actively receiving RT. Should a patient become pregnant or suspect she is pregnant while she or her partner is participating in this study, she should inform her treating physician immediately. NOTE: A POCBP is any patient (regardless of sexual orientation, having undergone a tubal ligation, or remaining celibate by choice) who meets the following criteria: • Has not undergone a hysterectomy or bilateral oophorectomy • Has had menses at any time in the preceding 12 consecutive months (and therefore has not been naturally postmenopausal for \> 12 months)
  • 1.10 POCBP must have a negative pregnancy test prior to CT simulation or sign the Department of Radiation Oncology's pregnancy testing declination form. Note: the timing of the pregnancy test/declination form will follow the policy of the Department of Radiology and Oncology, which requires completion of pregnancy testing or signed pregnancy declination prior to CT simulation.
  • 1.11 Patients must have the ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document prior to registration.

Exclusion criteria

  • 2.1 Patients with cT4, cN3, or cM1 disease by AJCC 8 th edition.
  • 2.2 Patients who have had prior RT to the head/neck region that would result in overlap of RT fields. 3.2.3 Patients who have had prior major surgery to the head/neck region that could disrupt lymphatic flow.
  • 2.4 Patients who have an uncontrolled intercurrent illness that would interfere with the receipt of RT including, but not limited to any of the following, are not eligible: • Uncontrolled connective tissue disorders (e.g. lupus, scleroderma) given potential for this to interfere with RT • Psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements • Any other illness or condition that the treating investigator feels would interfere with study compliance or would compromise the patient's safety or study endpoints

Where

  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Warrenville, Illinois

Collaborators

National Cancer Institute (NCI)

Related conditions & keywords

Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8Clinical Stage II HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

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 Jul 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations

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1 of 100 participants interested
1% interest

See if this study fits

A short prescreen based on this study's listed criteria. A coordinator confirms eligibility — this is not a medical assessment.

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Study locations

Choose your preferred location, or select flexible during enrollment.

RECRUITING

Chicago

Illinois

Location available
RECRUITING

Warrenville

Illinois

Location available

Express your interest

Share your contact details and a study coordinator can follow up about screening.

Secure & Confidential

Your information is protected and will only be shared with the research team.

What participation can include

  • Study-related care provided by the research team
  • Close monitoring by medical professionals
  • Possible compensation for time and travel*
  • The option to withdraw at any time
  • Contributing to medical research that may help future patients

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Typical next steps

  1. 1.Submit this form
  2. 2.Phone screening
  3. 3.In-person assessment if eligible
  4. 4.Begin participation

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Looking for Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8 Treatment in Chicago?

Join others in Illinois exploring innovative treatment options through clinical research

Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8 Treatment Options in Chicago, Illinois

If you're searching for Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8 treatment in Chicago, participating in a clinical research study may provide access to innovative approaches under expert medical supervision. This study is actively recruiting participants in Chicago, Warrenville and surrounding areas.

Clinical trials offer participants the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments while contributing to medical research that may help future patients with Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8. All study-related care is provided at no cost to participants.

Local Sites
2 locations in Illinois
Now Enrolling
Up to 100 participants
Quick Start
Screening available now

Why Consider a Clinical Trial for Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8?

Potential Benefits

  • Access to new treatment approaches before public availability
  • Close monitoring by experienced medical professionals
  • Study-related care provided at no cost
  • Contribute to medical research for Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8

What to Expect

  • Initial screening to determine eligibility
  • Regular check-ups and monitoring visits
  • Possible compensation for time and travel
  • You can withdraw at any time

Frequently Asked Questions About This Clinical Stage I HPV-Mediated (p16-Positive) Oropharyngeal Carcinoma AJCC v8 Study

Important Clinical Trial Information

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial participation involves potential risks and benefits. Eligibility requirements apply and will be assessed during the screening process.

Study identifier: NCT07178301. For complete study details, visit ClinicalTrials.gov. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about your medical care or participating in clinical research.