Could keytruda before surgery boost colorectal cancer outcomes?
NCT ID NCT03984578
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether giving the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda) along with chemotherapy before surgery can help shrink colorectal tumors and improve immune response. Thirty-three patients with non-metastatic colorectal cancer received the drugs, then had surgery. Researchers measured changes in tumor immune activity and shrinkage to see if this approach might be beneficial.
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 chemotherapy (CAPEOX or capecitabine/5-FU with radiation)
What this could lead to
If successful, this approach could improve tumor shrinkage and immune response before surgery, potentially leading to better outcomes for colorectal cancer patients.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase study (33 participants) focused on biological markers, not survival. Results may not apply to all patients, and side effects from chemo and immunotherapy can be serious.
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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National Cancer Centre Singapore
Singapore, 168583, Singapore
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Sengkang General Hospital
Singapore, 544886, Singapore
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Singapore General Hospital
Singapore, 169608, Singapore