Research

Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor Chemotherapy Treatment - Phase II

Chemotherapy in Sporadic and Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Associated High Grade Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors

Protocol Description

This Phase II multi-center study evaluates the use of chemotherapy prior to surgery – called neoadjuvant chemotherapy – for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is the standard treatment for many sarcomas in children and has resulted in improved survival rates. Researchers will study the effectiveness of combination chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy to reduce tumor size and to kill remaining tumor cells after surgery. The study is specifically designed for patients with stage III or IV malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors.

Eligibility Criteria

Subject to certain exclusion criteria, this study is accepting patients of both genders of all ages, who have been diagnosed with a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor.
Males: All ages
Females: All ages

Requirements
Eligible participants will be treated first with ifosfamide and doxorubicin for 2 treatment cycles followed by ifosfamide and etoposide. They are administered intravenously over 5 days in 21-day courses for up to 8 cycles. Some patients will also receive radiotherapy and or surgery.
Frequency of visits: Requires hospitalization for therapy and surgery; Every 3 weeks, thereafter
Duration: Up to 24 weeks for treatment

Status: Open for Enrollment

Sources of Support
Sarcoma Alliance for Research through Collaboration
National Cancer Institute
United States Army, Department of Defense

Additional Resources
Study description at National Institutes of Health