New combo therapy tackles rare brain cancer spread

NCT ID NCT03719768

Completed Disease control Sponsor: H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-phase trial tested the drug avelumab (Bavencio) combined with whole-brain radiotherapy in 16 patients with leptomeningeal disease, a condition where cancer spreads to the lining of the brain and spinal cord. The main goal was to find a safe dose and check for side effects. Researchers also looked at immune cell changes in the spinal fluid.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: avelumab (Bavencio) and whole-brain radiotherapy
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for leptomeningeal disease, a serious complication of cancer.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small Phase 1 trial with only 16 participants, focused on safety. It may not show clear benefit, and there are risks of serious side effects like brain bleeding or nerve problems.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

brain cancer Meningeal Carcinomatosis Meningeal Neoplasms neoplastic meningitis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

LEPTOMENINGEAL DISEASE LEPTOMENINGEAL METASTASES

Contacts and locations

Locations

H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute

Tampa, Florida, 33612, United States

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