Research

Glioma, Medulloblastoma or Ependymoma Chemotherapy Treatment - Phase II

Bevacizumab and Irinotecan in Treating Young Patients With Recurrent, Progressive, or Refractory Glioma, Medulloblastoma, or Ependymoma

Protocol Description

This Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium Phase II trial is studying how well bevacizumab in combination with irinotecan works in treating young patients with brain or spinal cord tumors – recurrent, progressive or refractory glioma, medulloblastoma or ependymoma. Bevacizumab, which is known by the trade name Avastin™, is thought to decrease the ability of the tumor to form new blood vessels, thus inhibiting its growth. Irinotecan is approved for use in chemotherapy for certain cancers in adults. The study will evaluate results and side effects related to the combination of the two drugs for this specific condition in children and young adults.

Eligibility Criteria

The group-wide study is accepting male and female patients up through age 20, who satisfy study criteria, including having a histologically confirmed brain or spinal tumor that has not responded to previous treatment or which has come back after previous treatment.
Boys: 2 through 20 years
Girls: 2 through 20 years

Requirements
Participants enrolled in the study will undergo 4-week courses of chemotherapy involving intravenous dosages of bevacizumab and irinotecan. Up to 24 courses may be given. Study participants will be monitored closely with physical examinations, blood tests and various types of scans.
Visits: Number varies depending on participant’s response to chemotherapy.
Duration: Depending on outcomes, treatment may extend 2 years with patient’s health monitored for an additional 30 days after treatment ends.

Status: Open for Enrollment

Source of Support
Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (Study PBTC-022 v 3.1)
National Cancer Institute

Additional Resources
Study Description at National Institutes of Health
National Cancer Institute
Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium