New combo therapy aims to shrink deadly esophageal tumors

NCT ID NCT06531434

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This pilot study tests a two-step treatment for T4 esophageal cancer, where the tumor has spread to nearby organs. First, patients receive up to 8 cycles of chemotherapy with docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil. If the tumor shrinks enough, they then get a lower dose of radiation combined with cisplatin. The goal is to see if this approach reduces the risk of a hole forming in the esophagus (perforation) and improves response and survival. The study enrolls 22 adults aged 18-70 with good organ function.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Docetaxel, Cisplatin, fluorouracil, and radiation

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could offer a safer and more effective treatment strategy for advanced esophageal cancer, potentially improving survival and reducing complications.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase pilot study with only 22 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The treatment involves strong chemotherapy and radiation, which carry risks like infection, bleeding, and organ damage.

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 ESOPHAGEAL CANCER TNM STAGING PRIMARY TUMOR (T) T4 are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

esophageal cancer esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

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

  • National Cheng Kung University Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Tainan, Taiwan, 704302, Taiwan

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

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