Experimental combo for advanced lung cancer shows early promise but trial halted
NCT ID NCT03436056
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This early-phase trial tested the combination of the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda) with precise, high-dose radiation (SBRT) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer that had progressed after chemotherapy. The study aimed to find the safest radiation dose and check for severe side effects. Only 2 patients were enrolled before the trial was terminated, so no firm conclusions can be drawn about effectiveness.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a new combination treatment for advanced lung cancer that has stopped responding to standard chemotherapy.
What could go wrong
This is a very early phase 1 trial that was terminated after only 2 participants, so results are extremely limited. The combination may cause serious side effects like low blood counts or organ inflammation.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
Sutton, Surrey, SM2 5PT, United Kingdom