New drug combo aims to reduce surgeries for rare HPV throat condition

NCT ID NCT04645602

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

Summary

This early-phase study tests two cancer drugs—lenvatinib (a daily pill) and pembrolizumab (an IV infusion)—in 20 adults with HPV-related recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) that has spread to the lungs. The goal is to see if the combination can shrink papillomas and reduce how often patients need surgery to clear their airways. The trial also monitors safety and side effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

lenvatinib (Lenvima) and pembrolizumab (Keytruda)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a drug treatment that reduces or eliminates the need for repeated surgeries to remove papillomas from the airways and lungs.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small pilot study with only 20 people. The combination may cause significant side effects, and there is no guarantee it will shrink tumors or improve symptoms.

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.

human papilloma virus infection lung disorder recurrent respiratory papillomatosis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Yale University

    RECRUITING

    New Haven, Connecticut, 06510, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact