Radiation Oncology

Intra-Oral Mucosal Cell Sampling, Head & Neck Radiotherapy

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Clinical Trial: Head and Neck Cancer

Intra-Oral Mucosal Cell Sampling in Head and Neck Radiotherapy for Molecular Dosimetric Analysis: A Pilot Feasibility Study

Observational Trial:

This study is designed to observe responses to radiation therapy by patients with head and neck cancer. It is not designed to treat patients or improve their outcomes. Instead, it is designed to obtain better insight into scientific questions such as how tumor cells and healthy tissue respond to radiation therapy, how to more accurately measure the amounts of radiation received by these patients to the mouth and throat areas, and other questions which may benefit such patients in the future.

Technical Title: Intra-Oral Mucosal Cell Sampling in Head and Neck Radiotherapy for Molecular Dosimetric Analysis: A Pilot Feasibility Study

Basic Information

This study will collect saliva samples from inside the mouth of head and neck cancer patients who receive radiation therapy at UCLA, at up to six separate intervals. All aspects of care are routine.

Procedures

  • Up to four areas of your mouth and throat will be gently swabbed with a brush to obtain cells. The tumor visible from within your mouth will also be swabbed. You will also be asked to provide saliva samples. These procedures will occur at up to three separate occasions:
    • one immediately prior to the first radiation treatment;
    • one midway through your treatment schedule;
    • and once at the end of treatment.
  • Scientists will then take these tissue samples with accompanying saliva to perform tests on them later on in a laboratory.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Adults 18 years of age or older;
  • Diagnosed with head and neck cancer;
  • Will receive radiation therapy treatment at UCLA.

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