Blood test aims to catch hidden head and neck cancer early

NCT ID NCT04599309

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University Health Network, Toronto Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study is testing whether a blood test can find tiny bits of tumor DNA (ctDNA) or HPV DNA in patients with high-risk head and neck cancer after standard treatment. The goal is to see if this test can detect cancer that remains or comes back earlier than usual scans. The study includes 35 patients with stage III or IV head and neck cancer who are starting standard therapy like surgery, radiation, or chemoradiation.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a blood test that catches cancer recurrence earlier, potentially improving outcomes for head and neck cancer patients.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early feasibility study (35 participants) focused on detection, not treatment. The test may not reliably predict relapse in all patients.

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.

cancer head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms head and neck squamous cell carcinoma neoplasm Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CANCER HEAD AND NECK CANCER HEAD AND NECK SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Princess Margaret Cancer Centre

Toronto, Ontario, L1M2J2, Canada

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