Blood test could personalize chemo for gut cancer patients

NCT ID NCT05947838

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is testing whether a simple blood test that measures tumor DNA (ctDNA) can help doctors decide how much chemotherapy to give before surgery for colorectal or appendix cancer that has spread to the abdomen. The goal is to see if the test can identify patients who need stronger chemo versus those who can safely have less. The trial will enroll 48 adults and track side effects to see if this personalized approach is feasible.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing
What this could lead to
If successful, this approach could help doctors personalize chemotherapy before surgery, potentially reducing the chance of cancer returning.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early feasibility study with only 48 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The ctDNA test may not accurately predict risk, and side effects from chemotherapy remain possible.

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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • M D Anderson Cancer Center

    RECRUITING

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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