NCT05237934 · National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Tissue Procurement and Natural History Study of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (NENs) Including Adrenocortical Carcinoma (ACC)
What this study is about
Background: Neuroendocrine neoplasm (NENs)are rare cancers arising from the neuroendocrine cells and can affect almost any part of the body. They vary from low grade neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) to high grade neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs).
View original scientific description
Background: Neuroendocrine neoplasm (NENs)are rare cancers arising from the neuroendocrine cells and can affect almost any part of the body. They vary from low grade neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) to high grade neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). These tumors often occur in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, lungs, adrenal medulla (pheochromocytomas) or adrenal cortex (adrenocortical cancer) and other areas of the body mentioned below: * Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NET): stomach, duodenum, pancreas, colon, appendix, etc. * Liver and gallbladder * Adrenal tumors * Pituitary gland * Thyroid gland: medullary thyroid carcinoma * Parathyroid tumors * Pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors: typical and atypical carcinoid, small cell lung cancer (SCLC), large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) * Extrapulmonary small cell cancer * Peripheral nervous system tumors: paraganglioma, neuroblastoma) * Breast and genitourinary tract Their rates are rising in the United States and worldwide. Researchers want to learn more about NENs through this natural history study. Objective: To study the natural history of people with NENs and obtain samples from them to learn more about the disease. The clinical management of all NETs is not standardized, with only a few FDA-approved therapies and we would like to learn which combination therapeutic approach should be used, how long treatment should be continued, and in what subgroup of NENs a particular treatment option should be used. Eligibility: People aged 18 and older who have or are suspected to have NENs or ACC. Design: Participants will be screened with a medical history. Participants will have a physical exam. Their symptoms and their ability to perform their normal activities will be reviewed. They will have blood and urine tests. Participants will receive recommendations for managing their disease and potential treatment options. They will be able to ask as many questions as they would like. Participants may provide saliva and blood, a for research. They will give tumor samples from a previous surgery or biopsy. Participants may have optional biopsies. During biopsies, cancer tissue will be obtained using a needle and syringe. Tissue will be taken from the liver, lung, or a lymph node. Participants may have an imaging scan or ultrasound to help locate the tumor or area to be biopsied. They will receive local anesthesia and may be sedated. Participants will complete a questionnaire about their family medical history. Participants will have follow-up visits every 12 months. They will have physical exams and give samples. If their health changes, they may have extra visits. If they cannot visit NIH, they (or their doctor) will be contacted by phone or email. Participants will take part in the study for all their life.
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
- Age \>= 18 years old
- The ability of the participant to understand and the willingness to sign a written consent document.
- Participants with the documentation of:
- histological or cytological confirmation of NENs or adrenocortical cancer OR --biochemical evidence of neuroendocrine tumor (serum/urinary) based on elevated levels of chromogranin A, pancreatic polypeptide, neuron-specific enolase, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, serotonin (urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA)), gastrin, somatostatin, catecholamines, metanephrines, calcitonin, fasting insulin, Cpeptide (proinsulin), glucagon, anterior pituitary hormones OR --Suspicion of NEN (from any site/origin) on axial imaging (computed tomography (CT)/ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) / fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) / 68Ga-Dotatate scan OR --a germline genetic variant that predisposes to NETs including ACC.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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 Nov 12, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations