Blood test may replace biopsies for immunotherapy monitoring

NCT ID NCT07396259

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

Summary

This study is testing whether a simple blood test can predict how well immunotherapy works in people with head and neck cancer. Researchers will measure a protein called PD-L1 on tumor cells that have escaped into the bloodstream. The goal is to see if these 'liquid biopsies' can replace repeated tissue biopsies and help doctors adjust treatment more quickly. The study involves 150 participants and is currently recruiting.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

liquid biopsy (blood test for circulating tumor cells)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to a simple blood test that helps doctors decide if immunotherapy is working, without needing repeated tissue biopsies.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage observational study, not a treatment trial. The blood test may not reliably predict outcomes, and results may not change current care for years.

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for IMMUNOTHERAPY are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms Neoplastic Cells, Circulating

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Taoyuan, City, 333, Taiwan

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••