Can a PET scan predict if immunotherapy works? new study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT07448727

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Rome Tor Vergata Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is testing whether a special PET scan taken 6 weeks after starting pembrolizumab (an immunotherapy drug) can predict how well the drug works at 3, 6, and 9 months in people with advanced head and neck cancer. Researchers will enroll 25 patients whose cancer has returned or spread and who have a specific marker (PD-L1 CPS >1). The goal is to see if early changes in tumor activity on the scan can guide treatment decisions.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: pembrolizumab
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors know sooner whether pembrolizumab is working, allowing them to adjust treatment earlier.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early observational study (25 people) that only looks at scans, not a new treatment. It may not lead to changes in care.

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 of Head and Neck

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEAD & NECK SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA HEAD NECK CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Tor Vergata University Hospital
RECRUITING

Rome, Italy, 00133, Italy

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