New combo therapy targets breast cancer in the brain and spine

NCT ID NCT04588545

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

Summary

This study tests whether radiation therapy followed by injecting two targeted antibodies (trastuzumab and pertuzumab) directly into the spinal fluid is safe and improves survival for people with HER2+ breast cancer that has spread to the lining of the brain and spine. About 33 participants will receive radiation first to ease symptoms and help the drugs flow, then increasing doses of the antibodies. The goal is to find the best dose and see if it extends life by at least one year.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
trastuzumab and pertuzumab (given directly into the spinal fluid)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a new treatment option for HER2+ breast cancer that has spread to the brain and spine lining, potentially improving survival.
What could go wrong
This is an early-phase trial with only 33 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment involves radiation and spinal injections, which carry risks like infection or nerve damage.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

HER2 positive breast carcinoma Meningeal Carcinomatosis Meningeal Neoplasms neoplastic meningitis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Moffitt Cancer Center

    Tampa, Florida, 33612, United States

  • Northwestern University

    Evanston, Illinois, 60208, United States

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