NCT01109420 · National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Clinical and Genetic Studies in Familial Non-medullary Thyroid Cancer
What this study is about
Background: \- Researchers are studying types of thyroid cancer that seem to cluster in families. Non-medullary thyroid cancer accounts for the vast majority of all types of thyroid cancer, but little is known about possible genes that may cause the cancer.
View original scientific description
Background: \- Researchers are studying types of thyroid cancer that seem to cluster in families. Non-medullary thyroid cancer accounts for the vast majority of all types of thyroid cancer, but little is known about possible genes that may cause the cancer. More research is needed to develop the best ways to screen for familial non-medullary thyroid cancer (FNMTC) so that it can be diagnosed and treated at an early stage. Objectives: * To evaluate the natural history of FNMTC. * To determine the best screening strategy for FNMTC. * To identify genes that may indicate susceptibility to FNMTC. Eligibility: \- Individuals at least 7 years of age who have two first-degree relatives (e.g., parents, children, siblings) who have or have had non-medullary thyroid cancer or a documented diagnosis of non-medullary thyroid cancer and one living relative with documented non-medullary thyroid cancer. Design: * Participants will be evaluated by family history pedigree, physical examination, imaging (including possible neck ultrasound and radioactive iodine scans), and laboratory testing. * Participants who agree to have blood or other biological samples collected will be asked to enroll in an additional study to provide the appropriate samples and tissues. * After the initial study evaluation, participants who are not found to have a malignant thyroid tumor will be re-screened every year with non-invasive imaging studies. Participants who are found to have a malignant thyroid tumor will be informed of possible treatment options.
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
- Subjects will be selected for this protocol based on either a clinical diagnosis of non-medullary thyroid cancer and the presence of one family member with the disease or the presence of 2 living family members with this disease. Patient selection for this protocol will not be based on gender, race, or ethnic background. In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Adults or minor (\>= 7 years+), males and females.
- An unaffected individual with (Bullet) 2 first-degree relatives who have or have had nonmedullary thyroid cancer OR -An affected individual with documented diagnosis of non-medullary thyroid cancer and (Bullet) one living relative with documented non-medullary thyroid cancer (Note: as this is a familial study, subjects do not need to present with the disease) OR
- Any member of an affected family. (Note: for this study, an affected family is defined as a family having 2 or more 1st degree relatives with a documented diagnosis of FNMTC.)
- Adults must be able to understand and the willingness to sign the informed consent document.
- Adults must be able to complete the family history questionnaire.
Exclusion criteria
- An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be not be allowed to enroll in this study: -Subjects unwilling/unable to give informed consent.
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 Jul 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations