Radioactive seeds zapped tumors from the inside — but trial stopped early

NCT ID NCT03886181

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

Summary

This early study tested a device that places radioactive seeds directly into skin, mouth, or soft tissue tumors. The seeds release alpha radiation to kill cancer cells from within. Only 2 people took part before the trial was stopped, so we don't have enough information to know if it works or is safe.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Diffusing Alpha Radiation Emitters Therapy (DaRT) device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new way to treat superficial tumors by delivering targeted radiation from inside the tumor.

What could go wrong

This very early trial was terminated after enrolling only 2 people, so we have very little data. The approach may not prove safe or effective in larger studies.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

basal cell carcinoma Kaposi's sarcoma lip cancer malignant soft tissue neoplasm oral cavity neoplasm skin cancer skin neoplasm soft tissue neoplasm Soft Tissue Neoplasms squamous cell carcinoma Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck tongue cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • IRCCS Istituto Dermatologico S. Gallicano, IFO - Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri - Dermatologia Oncologica e Prevenzione

    Rome, Lazio, Italy