Now Enrolling: EA2182 / DECREASE for Early-Stage Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The DECREASE study is based on the hypothesis that lower chemoradiation (CRT) doses will be able to effectively treat early­ stage anal squamous cell carcinoma while improving patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQL) related to anorectal dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, dyspareunia, and vaginal stenosis. Currently, there is not an established treatment standard that is individualized for patients with early-stage anal cancer, defined as T1-2N0.

Across many studies utilizing very different doses of CRT, local control is excellent at around 90%. DECREASE is a phase II study that will randomize patients 2:1 to lower dose versus standard dose CRT. Novel secondary endpoints are to validate imaging features of low-risk lymph nodes, measure changes in serum testosterone, correlate vaginal dilator use during radiation therapy with sexual function, determine the incidence and predictors for cardiovascular toxicity, and determine if an online 3D contouring atlas can improve radiation treatment planning.

This study is led by Jennifer A. Dorth, MD (Case Western University), pictured.

Learn more about EA2182 / DECREASE at ecog-acrin.org