Experimental combo for rare lung cancer shows early promise but trial halted

NCT ID NCT04166734

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

Summary

This early-phase trial tested the drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda) combined with targeted radiation (SBRT) in 5 people with advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the lung lining. The goal was to check safety and find the right dose. The study was terminated early, so we have limited data on how well it works.

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 successful, this combination could offer a new treatment option for advanced mesothelioma patients who have run out of standard therapies.

What could go wrong

This was a very early phase 1 trial with only 5 participants and has been terminated, so results are limited. The combination may cause severe side effects like fever or bleeding, and it is unclear if it will improve outcomes.

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.

malignant pleural mesothelioma mesothelioma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre

    Glasgow, G12 0YN, United Kingdom

  • Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

    Chelsea, United Kingdom