NCT04594187 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Nodal Radiation Therapy for Sentinel Lymph Node Positive Melanoma
(MelPORT)
What this study is about
This phase II trial seeks to determine the role of nodal radiation therapy after sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) for patients with high risk sentinel lymph node positive melanoma who are planned for immunotherapy without completion lymph node dissection.
View original scientific description
This phase II trial seeks to determine the role of nodal radiation therapy after sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) for patients with high risk sentinel lymph node positive melanoma who are planned for immunotherapy without completion lymph node dissection.
Interventions
OTHER
Immunotherapy
All patients must be planned for treatment with any immunotherapy agent after sentinel lymph node biopsy (e.g. pembrolizumab or nivolumab). For patients receiving radiation therapy initiation may be before, during or after radiation.
OTHER
Quality-of-Life Assessment
Ancillary studies
RADIATION
Radiation Therapy
Undergo nodal radiation therapy
Primary outcome measures
Time to regional nodal recurrence
Time frame: From date of sentinel lymph node biopsy, assessed up to 5 years
Regional nodal recurrence will be assessed by physical exam and routine surveillance imaging during follow-up
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
- Must be planned for post-operative immunotherapy
- No evidence of distant metastasis as determined by clinical examination and any form of imaging
- No evidence of clinically involved lymph nodes prior to SLNB
- Pathologically confirmed sentinel lymph node positive melanoma with high risk features (extracapsular extension \[ECE\] or 0.5 mm+ nodal tumor implant or 2+ involved nodes or lymphovascular invasion of the primary tumor)
- Has provided written informed consent for participation in this trial
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 3 or less
- Life expectancy greater than 6 months
- Patients capable of childbearing are using adequate contraception
- Available for follow-up
Exclusion criteria
- Complete lymph node dissection (CLND) of the nodal basin containing the positive SLN
- Distant metastasis
- Previous radiation therapy (RT) to the nodal area planned for RT such that the prior RT field would be included in the current tre
Where
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Camden, New Jersey
- Houston, Texas
Related conditions & keywords
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 Feb 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations