Blood Test Monitoring of Tumor DNA in Adults Undergoing Surgery for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck who are planning to have surgery to remove their cancer. The study aims to measure levels of circulating tumor DNA ctDNA, which indicates cancer cells in the blood, before and after surgery. They want to understand how ctDNA changes over time and if certain tumor or patient features are linked to higher ctDNA levels, as well as explore if ctDNA detection after surgery is related to cancer coming back. The study collects tumor tissue during surgery to identify specific genetic mutations using advanced DNA testing technology called PCR. Blood samples are taken before surgery and at various times after surgery, including after additional treatments and during follow-up visits, to detect and measure ctDNA. Tumor samples may also be collected again if cancer recurs or after treatment. These specimens are gathered during planned clinical assessments. Participants will provide blood samples and tumor tissue at scheduled times at consent, post-surgery, after adjuvant treatment, and during follow-up visits for up to several years if needed. The research team will analyze tumor mutations, changes in ctDNA levels, and their relation to surgical outcomes such as margins and cancer spread. This monitoring helps evaluate ctDNA as a marker for tumor presence and recurrence. The study involves ongoing clinical assessments and laboratory analyses over time.

Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA) in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma