Can a vaccine stop head and neck cancer from coming back?

NCT ID NCT03821272

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of Arkansas Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested a vaccine called PepCan in 17 people who had head and neck cancer and were in remission. The goal was to see if the vaccine is safe and can reduce the chance of the cancer returning. Participants received seven injections of either PepCan or a placebo over about two years.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: PepCan (HPV 16 E6 peptides combined with Candin)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a way to lower the chance of head and neck cancer coming back after remission.
What could go wrong: This is a very small early-phase trial with only 17 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The vaccine may not reduce recurrence or could cause side effects.

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.

head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms head and neck squamous cell carcinoma squamous cell carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEAD AND NECK CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Little Rock, Arkansas, 72205, United States

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