Circulating HPV DNA in Anal and Cervical Cancers Treated With Radiation Therapy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying individuals with human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated anal and cervical cancers who are receiving radiation treatment as part of their standard cancer care. The study aims to detect HPV DNA in the blood before, during, and after radiation therapy. The research also involves testing archival tumor tissue from previous biopsies to gather more information about HPV-related cancers and their response to treatment. This observational study is sponsored by the University of Chicago and involves both retrospective and prospective participant groups. Participants fall into two groups: those who have already completed chemoradiation for their HPV-related cancer before the study began, and those who will receive radiation treatment during the study period. Blood samples will be collected multiple times from prospective participants, while retrospective participants provide previously collected blood and tumor tissue samples. The study evaluates circulating HPV DNA through blood tests and tumor tissue analysis without requiring new biopsies. Participants will be followed for approximately two years, with blood samples collected before, during, and after treatment to monitor HPV DNA levels. Researchers will also perform physical exams, which may include anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, about 12 months after radiation treatment. Imaging scans such as PET or CT scans may be used to assess the cancer. The primary outcome is the rate of participants with detectable circulating HPV DNA, and secondary outcomes include evaluating HPV DNA levels to predict cancer recurrence at 24 months.

Detecting HPV DNA in Anal and Cervical Cancers