A Phase 2 clinical trial is underway to assess the effectiveness of nivolumab and ipilimumab, with or without cabozantinib, in treating patients with advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma that has progressed following platinum-based therapy and immunotherapy. This randomized study (A092105) aims to determine if the addition of cabozantinib can improve outcomes for patients with this challenging cancer. The trial is being conducted at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Study Design and Treatment
The trial involves patients with recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma that has progressed after no more than two prior treatment regimens. Participants are randomized to receive nivolumab and ipilimumab, both intravenously administered immunotherapies, either alone or in combination with cabozantinib, an oral medication. Nivolumab and ipilimumab work by inhibiting immune checkpoints, thereby enhancing the ability of immune cells to target and destroy cancer cells. Cabozantinib functions by blocking abnormal protein activity that promotes cancer cell multiplication.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the study, patients must have recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma that has progressed after previous treatments. They must have completed prior therapies at least four weeks before starting the study treatment. Additionally, patients must be able to walk and perform routine activities for more than half of their waking hours and be at least 18 years of age.
Rationale for Combination Therapy
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, particularly in advanced stages, presents significant treatment challenges. Platinum-based chemotherapy has been a standard of care, but resistance and disease progression are common. Immunotherapy has shown promise, but not all patients respond. The combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab aims to enhance the immune response against cancer cells, while cabozantinib targets tumor growth pathways. This trial seeks to determine if this multi-pronged approach can improve outcomes for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.
Contact Information
For more information about the trial and eligibility, individuals can contact Dr. Eric Sherman’s office at 646-608-3776.
