New hope for rare, aggressive thyroid cancer: drug combo shows promise

NCT ID NCT04171622

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests whether combining lenvatinib (a targeted drug that blocks cancer growth) with pembrolizumab (an immunotherapy that helps the immune system attack cancer) can improve outcomes for people with advanced anaplastic thyroid cancer that cannot be surgically removed or has spread. The study enrolls 25 participants and measures overall survival, progression-free survival, and tumor response.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
lenvatinib and pembrolizumab
What this could lead to
If successful, this combination could offer a new treatment option for people with advanced anaplastic thyroid cancer, potentially improving survival and controlling tumor growth.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase trial with only 25 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The drugs can cause side effects like high blood pressure, fatigue, and immune-related reactions.

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

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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