Quynh-Thu Le, MD

Katharine Dexter McCormick and Stanley McCormick Memorial Professor and Professor, by courtesy, of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS)

Bio

Quynh-Thu Le, MD received her medical school and radiation oncology training at University of California, San Francisco. In 1997, she joined Stanford, where she holds the Katharine Dexter McCormick & Stanley Memorial Professorship and is Chair of the Radiation Oncology Department.

Her research focuses on translating laboratory findings to the clinic and vice versa in head and neck cancer (HNC), specifically in tumor hypoxia, radiation resistance, Galectin-1, and salivary gland stem cells.

Clinically, she has led multicenter phase II and III clinical trials, testing the addition of novel drugs as radiosensitizer or radioprotector with chemoradiotherapy in HNC. She has received grant support from ASCO, ASTRO as well as P01, R01 and R21 grants from the NIH. She was inducted into the Fellowship of the American College of Radiology (FACR), the American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (FASTRO) and the Institute of Medicine/National Academy of Medicine (IOM/NAM). She was also honored with the Caltech Distinguished Alumni Award in 2015.

Administratively, she is the Co-Director of the Radiation Biology Program at the Stanford Cancer Institute and the Group Chair of the NRG Oncology, which is the largest group in the NCI National Clinical Trial Network (NCTN). She used to chair Head and Neck Disease Site Committee of NRG Oncology before becoming the group chair. She has served as a reviewer for several cancer related journals and NIH study sections. She has also been actively involved in many committees of national and international organizations such as ASTRO, ASCO and AARC and ARS.

Clinical Focus

Cancer > Head and Neck Cancer
Cancer > Radiation Oncology
Lung Cancer - Radiation Oncology
Salivary Gland Tumors - Radiation Oncology
Head and Neck Cancers - Radiation Oncology
Larynx Cancer - Radiation Oncology
Radiation Oncology
Oral Cavity Cancer - Radiation Oncology
Sarcomas - Soft Tissue - Radiation Oncology
Skull Base Tumors - Radiation Oncology

Academic Appointments

Professor, Radiation Oncology - Radiation Therapy
Professor (By courtesy), Otolaryngology (Head and Neck Surgery)
Member, Bio-X
Member, Stanford Cancer Institute

Administrative Appointments

Chair, Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University (2011 - Present)
Co-Director, Radiation Biology Program, Stanford Cancer Institute (2004 - Present)

Honors & Awards

Distinguished Alumni Award, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) (2015)
Fellow, American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) (2014)
Recipient, ARRO Educator of the Year Award (2014)
Member, Induction into Institute of Medicine (IOM) (2013)
Fellow, American College of Radiology (ACR) (2011)
Recipient, ASCO Clinical Research Development Award (2002-2005)
Recipient, American Association of Woman Radiologist Early Career Professional Development Award (2002)
Recipient, ASTRO Junior Faculty Research Fellowship (2000-2002)
Recipient, Henry Kaplan Memorial Prize for Teaching Award (1998, 2000)
Recipient, Radiologic Society of Northern American Resident Research Award (1997)
Member, Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society (1993)
Top Graduate in Medical School Class, Sadie E. Berkove, MD Fellowship (1993)
Recipient, UCSF Regent Scholarship (1989-1991)

Boards, Advisory Committees, Professional Organizations

Treasurer and Executive Committee Member, American Radium Socieity (2012 - Present)
Annual Program Committee - Head and Neck Group Member, ASCO (2012 - 2015)
Chair, Head and Neck Cancer Committee, NRG Oncology Cooperative Group (RTOG, NSABP & GOG) (2011 - Present)
Chair, Education Committee, ASTRO (2011 - 2015)
Chair and Member, Scientific Program Committee, American Radium Society (2006 - 2011)
Editorial Board Member, Journal Clinical Oncology (2006 - 2010)
Radiology Program Co-Director, Stanford Comprehensive Cancer Center Grant (P30) (2005 - Present)
Annual Program Committee Member, ASTRO (2004 - 2010)
Panel Member, National Comprehensive Cancer Network Lung Cancer (2004 - 2010)
Annual Program Committee - Lung Group Member, ASCO (2004 - 2007)
Task Force Member of Written Board/Oral Board, American Board of Radiology (2003 - Present)

Professional Education

Residency: UCSF Radiation Oncology Residency (1997) CA
Internship: Alameda County Highland Hospital Internal Medicine Residency (1994) CA
Medical Education: University of California at San Francisco School of Medicine (1993) CA
Board Certification: American Board of Radiology, Radiation Oncology (1998)
MD, UCSF, Medicine (1993)

Contact

Academic Tel: (650) 498-5032

Administrative Contacts Vicki Tran, James Tantoco Administrative Associates qle_admins@stanford.edu Tel: 650-725-0203

Clinical Radiation Therapy 875 Blake Wilbur Dr Clinic D MC 5847 Stanford CA 94305 Tel: (650) 725-0203 Fax: (650) 723-3913

Current Research and Scholarly Interests

My laboratory research interest focuses on the identification of biomarkers for prognosis in patients with head & neck or lung cancers. Current research goals are: to validate the prognostic significance of certain hypoxia markers using clinical samples from a randomized phase III clinical trial and to monitor the tumor burden of HPV-related head & neck cancers during therapy by tracking circulating HPV DNA in the blood. We are also looking to target Galectin-1 (an immunomodulator that is over expressed in many cancers and is associated with tumor aggressiveness) in combination with radiation in solid tumors, and to identify a microRNA signature in lung cancer. Additionally, we are working to isolate human salivary gland stem cells and to manipulate key molecular pathways involved in radiation injury of salivary glands in hopes of rescuing salivary gland function after head & neck radiation therapy.

I am also conducting a number of clinical trials specifically in patients with head and neck cancer. I chair the Head and Neck Cancer Committee of the NRG Oncology group, which is a cooperative group consisting of RTOG, NSABP and GO. I work with committee wit develop and conduct several large phase II and III trials to advance the clinical management of head and neck cancer in North American and hopefully to establish new standards of care in these cancers.

Clinical Trials

d-Limonene +Radiation +Platinum Based Chemo for Xerostomia Prevention in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Recruiting
More
This study explores the safety of d-limonene, a commercially-available dietary supplement (food) as a potential therapeutic for the severe dry mouth (xerostomia) experienced by patients with head and neck cancer as a side effect of their anti-cancer treatment.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
Testing Docetaxel-Cetuximab or the Addition of an Immunotherapy Drug, Atezolizumab, to the Usual Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy in High-Risk Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
This phase II/III trial studies how well radiation therapy works when given together with cisplatin, docetaxel, cetuximab, and/or atezolizumab after surgery in treating patients with high-risk stage III-IV head and neck cancer the begins in the thin, flat cells (squamous cell). Specialized radiation therapy that delivers a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor may kill more tumor cells and cause less damage to normal tissue. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin and docetaxel, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody that may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies, such as atezolizumab, may help the body's immune system attack the cancer, and may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. The purpose of this study is to compare the usual treatment (radiation therapy with cisplatin chemotherapy) to using radiation therapy with docetaxel and cetuximab chemotherapy, and using the usual treatment plus an immunotherapy drug, atezolizumab.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact SPECTRUM, .
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
Human Salivary Gland Disposition of Alda-341 in Patients Undergoing Salivary Gland Surgery Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is determine salivary gland disposition of d-limonene, the primary component in citrus peel and a common dietary supplement. Salivary gland tissue and saliva will be collected to determine concentration of d-limonene and its metabolites in these tissues.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact SPECTRUM, .

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
De-intensified Radiation Therapy With Chemotherapy (Cisplatin) or Immunotherapy (Nivolumab) in Treating Patients With Early-Stage, HPV-Positive, Non-Smoking Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer Recruiting
More
This phase II/III trial studies how well a reduced dose of radiation therapy works with nivolumab compared to cisplatin in treating patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal cancer that is early in its growth and may not have spread to other parts of the body (early-stage), and is not associated with smoking. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells and shrink tumors. Chemotherapy drugs, such as cisplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells, by stopping them from dividing, or by stopping them from spreading. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies, such as nivolumab, may help the body's immune system attack the cancer, and may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. This trial is being done to see if a reduced dose of radiation therapy and nivolumab works as well as standard dose radiation therapy and cisplatin in treating patients with oropharyngeal cancer.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Radiation Therapy in Preventing Central Nervous System (CNS) Metastases in Patients With Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to damage tumor cells. It is not yet known if giving radiation therapy to the head is effective in preventing CNS metastases in patients who have stage III non-small cell lung cancer. PURPOSE: This randomized phase III trial is studying how well radiation therapy to the head works in preventing CNS metastases in patients who have been previously treated for stage III non-small cell lung cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Derek Huang, 6507250203.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients With Extensive Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. This may be an effective treatment for extensive stage small cell lung cancer. PURPOSE: This randomized phase II trial is comparing how well radiation therapy to the brain works when given with or without radiation therapy to other areas of the body in treating patients with extensive stage small cell lung cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Laura Gable, 6507360798.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Bevacizumab, Cisplatin, Radiation Therapy, and Fluorouracil in Treating Patients With Stage IIB, Stage III, Stage IVA, or Stage IVB Nasopharyngeal Cancer Not Recruiting
More
This phase II trial is studying how well giving bevacizumab together with cisplatin, radiation therapy, and fluorouracil works in treating patients with stage IIB, stage III, stage IVA, or stage IVB nasopharyngeal cancer. Monoclonal antibodies, such as bevacizumab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. Bevacizumab may also stop the growth of nasopharyngeal cancer by blocking blood flow to the tumor. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin and fluorouracil, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Giving bevacizumab together with chemotherapy and radiation therapy may kill more tumor cells.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Derek Huang, 6507250203.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
Phase 2 Sequential and Concurrent Chemoradiation for Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) Not Recruiting
More
This phase 2 trial is studying whether giving a combination of docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil chemotherapy followed by the combination of cisplatin with radiation therapy works in treating patients with advanced nasopharyngeal cancer. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Specialized radiation therapy that delivers a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor may kill more tumor cells and cause less damage to normal tissue. Giving combination chemotherapy together with radiation therapy may kill more tumor cells.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Risa Jiron, 650-736-1598.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- A. Dimitrios Colevas, MD
View full details
Radiation Therapy and Cisplatin With or Without Cetuximab in Treating Patients With Stage III or Stage IV Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Cisplatin may also make tumor cells more sensitive to radiation therapy. Monoclonal antibodies, such as cetuximab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. Giving radiation therapy and cisplatin together with cetuximab may kill more tumor cells. It is not yet known whether radiation therapy and cisplatin are more effective with or without cetuximab in treating head and neck cancer. PURPOSE: This randomized phase III trial is studying radiation therapy, cisplatin, and cetuximab to see how well they work compared to radiation therapy and cisplatin in treating patients with stage III or stage IV head and neck cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Trevor Elizabeth Krakow, 6507254777.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Identification of Secreted Markers for Tumor Hypoxia in Patients With Head and Neck or Lung Cancers Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is to identify and confirm new blood and tissue markers for prognosis and tumor hypoxia. Tumor hypoxia, or the condition of low oxygen in the tumor, has been shown to increase the risk of tumor spread and enhance tumor resistance to the standard treatment of radiation and chemotherapy in head and neck and lung cancers. We have recently identified several proteins or markers in the blood and in tumors (including osteopontin, lysyl oxidase, macrophage inhibiting factor and proteomic technology) in the laboratory that may be able to identify tumors with low oxygen levels or more aggressive behaving tumors.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Endoscopic Capillary Oximetry for Tumor Diagnosis in Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
Endoscopy is a standard part of the evaluation of patients with head and neck cancer used for determining the extent of tumor involvement. However, not all areas involved by tumor are apparent visually. Preliminary results indicate that compared with normal tissues, tumors have abnormal levels of capillary oxygenation. The purpose of this study is to determine the ability of non-pulsatile visible light tissue oxygen monitoring to differentiate normal and tumor tissue based on capillary oxygenation during endoscopy Should this be possible, this method could be used to mark tumor extent and invasion, even when that invasion is up to 5mm blow the tissue surface.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Peter Maxim, 6507243018.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Novel Serum Markers for Monitoring Response to Anti-Cancer Therapy Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is to measure the levels of serum proteins and other biomarkers in cancer patients and in patients suspected of having cancer. We believe that some of these markers may be useful for confirming the diagnosis or for selecting patients for specific types of cancer therapies. These markers may also help to predict response to therapy, relapse after therapy, and survival after therapy.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Evaluation of Cyberknife Precision Radiation Delivery System for Unresectable Malignant Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
This study has two primary objectives. The first objective is to determine the maximal tolerated dose (MTD) that can be delivered with stereotactic radiosurgery in patients with inoperable malignant lung tumors. Once the MTD is established, the second objective is to determine the efficacy of radiosurgical ablation of lung tumors in terms of symptoms and radiographic responses.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Lisa Zhou, 6507364112.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Study to Assess Safety and Tolerability of AG013 in Oral Mucositis in Subjects Receiving Induction Chemotherapy for the Treatment of Cancers of the Head and Neck Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is to assess the safety and tolerability of AG013 (genetically modified L. lactis bacteria engineered to secrete human Trefoil Factor 1), and to explore the ability of AG013 to attenuate the course and severity of oral mucositis (OM) in subjects receiving induction chemotherapy for the treatment of head and neck cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Ruth Lira, 6507231367.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- A. Dimitrios Colevas, MD
View full details
Cervical Nodal Mets in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of H&N - MRI, FDG-PET, & Histopathologic Correlation Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is to determine the value of novel non-invasive medical imaging methods for detecting the spread of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to the lymph nodes in the neck by comparing their results to findings at the time of surgery.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Quynh-Thu Le, 6504986184.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Indirect Magnetic Resonance Lymphangiography of the Head and Neck Region Using Conventional Gadolinium-based Contrast Not Recruiting
More
To determine the ability of magnetic resonance lymphangiography using conventional gadolinium injected directly into the tumor site and PET scan in detecting microscopic nodal metastasis in patients with newly diagnosed H&N cancers

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Bill Loo, 6507367143.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
CyberKnife Radiosurgical Treatment of Inoperable Early Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is to assess the short and long-term outcomes after CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery for early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients who are medically inoperable.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Lisa Zhou, 6507364112.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Biopsy of Human Tumors for Cancer Stem Cell Characterization: a Feasibility Study Not Recruiting
More
To see if a limited sampling of tumor tissue from human subjects is a feasible way to gather adequate tissue for cancer stem cell quantification.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Ruth Lira, 650-723-1367.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Radiation Therapy With Cisplatin or Cetuximab in Treating Patients With Oropharyngeal Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells and shrink tumors. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Monoclonal antibodies, such as cetuximab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. It is not yet known whether radiation therapy is more effective with cisplatin or cetuximab in treating oropharyngeal cancer. PURPOSE: This phase III trial is studying radiation therapy with cisplatin or cetuximab to see how well it works in treating patients with oropharyngeal cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Polly Young, 650-497-7499.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- A. Dimitrios Colevas, MD
View full details
Manuka Honey in Preventing Esophagitis-Related Pain in Patients Receiving Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy For Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Manuka honey may prevent or reduce esophagitis-related pain caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It is not yet known whether Manuka honey is more effective than standard care in preventing pain. PURPOSE: This randomized phase II clinical trial is studying Manuka honey to see how well it works in preventing esophagitis-related pain in patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy for lung cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Laura Gable, 6507360798.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Surgery With or Without Internal Radiation Therapy Compared With Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients With High-Risk Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Surgery with or without internal radiation therapy may be an effective treatment for non-small cell lung cancer. Internal radiation uses radioactive material placed directly into or near a tumor to kill tumor cells. Stereotactic body radiation therapy may be able to send x-rays directly to the tumor and cause less damage to normal tissue. It is not yet known whether stereotactic body radiation therapy is more effective than surgery with or without internal radiation therapy in treating non-small cell lung cancer. PURPOSE: This randomized phase III trial is studying how well surgery with or without internal radiation therapy works compared with stereotactic body radiation therapy in treating patients with high-risk stage IA or stage IB non-small cell lung cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Lisa Zhou, 6507364112.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Image-Guided Radiosurgery or Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients With Localized Spine Metastasis Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Specialized radiation therapy that delivers a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor may kill more tumor cells and cause less damage to normal tissue. PURPOSE: This randomized phase II/III trial is studying how well image-guided radiosurgery or stereotactic body radiation therapy works and compares it to external-beam radiation therapy in treating patients with localized spine metastasis.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Alifia Hasan, 650-725-1723.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Radiation Therapy With or Without Cetuximab in Treating Patients Who Have Undergone Surgery for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Giving radiation therapy that uses a 3-dimensional (3-D) image of the tumor to help focus thin beams of radiation directly on the tumor, and giving radiation therapy in higher doses over a shorter period of time, may kill more tumor cells and have fewer side effects. Monoclonal antibodies, such as cetuximab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. It is not yet known whether radiation therapy is more effective when given alone or together with cetuximab in treating patients with head and neck cancer that has been removed by surgery. PURPOSE: This randomized phase III trial is studying radiation therapy to see how well it works compared with radiation therapy given together with cetuximab in treating patients who have undergone surgery for locally advanced head and neck cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Alice Banh, 650-723-1423.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy (RT) With or Without Vandetanib in Treating Patients With High-Risk Stage III or Stage IV Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Vandetanib may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. It is not yet known whether giving chemotherapy together with radiation therapy is more effective with or without vandetanib in treating patients with head and neck cancer. PURPOSE: This randomized phase II trial is studying giving chemotherapy together with radiation therapy to see how well it works compared with giving chemotherapy and radiation therapy together with vandetanib in treating patients with high-risk stage III or stage IV head and neck cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Brindha Bavan, 6507254777.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
Phase II Docetaxel / Carboplatin / XRT + Surgical Resection in Stage III NSCLC Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is to assess how well this particular combination of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery works to help people with locally advanced lung cancer, how well PET scans indicates whether someone has responded to chemotherapy and radiation, and gene expression patterns related to outcomes in patients with locally advanced lung cancer who receive this treatment regimen.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Lisa Zhou, 6507364112.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Radiation Therapy With or Without Chemotherapy in Treating Patients With High-Risk Malignant Salivary Gland Tumors That Have Been Removed By Surgery Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. It is not yet known whether radiation therapy is more effective when given together with chemotherapy or alone after surgery in treating salivary gland tumors. PURPOSE: This randomized phase II/III trial is studying radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy to see how well it works in treating patients with high-risk malignant salivary gland tumors that have been removed by surgery.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Polly Young, 650-497-7499.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
Memantine in Preventing Side Effects in Patients Undergoing Whole-Brain Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases From Solid Tumors Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Memantine may be able to decrease side effects caused by whole-brain radiation therapy. It is not yet known if memantine is effective in preventing side effects caused by whole-brain radiation therapy. PURPOSE: This randomized phase III trial is studying memantine to see how well it works compared to a placebo in preventing side effects caused by whole-brain radiation therapy in patients with brain metastases from solid tumors.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Leslie Modlin, 6507238843.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Pulmonary Interstitial Lymphography in Early Stage Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
The stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) procedure is an emerging alternative to the standard treatment for early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), typically lobectomy with lymphadenectomy. This procedure (lobectomy) does not fulfill the medical need as many patients are poor operative candidates or decline surgery. This study assesses the feasibility of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) as a tool to produce therapeutically useful computed tomography (CT) scans, using standard water-soluble iodinated compounds as the contrast agents.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Laura Gable, 6507360798.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Study to Evaluate Immunological Response to PD-1 Inhibition in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck (SCCHN) Not Recruiting
More
This is a single-center cross-sectional imaging and correlative biomarker study in patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck (SCCHN). Cohort 1 will be patients with unresectable or metastatic SCCHN cancer receiving standard of care (SOC) anti-PD-1 treatment and Cohort 2 will be neoadjuvant study participants who will receive one dose of anti-PD-1 treatment prior to tumor resection or radiation. Blood sampling and tissue biopsies will be collected from both cohorts and both cohorts will undergo two whole body PET(Positron Emission Tomography)/CT(Computed Tomography) imaging with [18F]F-AraG. First scan prior to initiating anti-PD-1 treatment and second scan post initiation of anti-PD-1 treatment in Cohort 1 and prior to tumor resection or radiation in Cohort 2

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Stefania U Chirita, 650-723-1423.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Safety Testing of Adding Nivolumab to Chemotherapy in Patients With Intermediate and High-Risk Local-Regionally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
This study will evaluate the safety of adding nivolumab to several chemotherapy platforms with weekly cisplatin, high-dose cisplatin, cetuximab or radiation therapy alone.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Cancer Clinical Trials Office (CCTO), 650-498-7061.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- A. Dimitrios Colevas, MD
View full details
Identification and Characterization of Novel Proteins and Genes in Head and Neck Cancer Recruiting
More
Through this study, we hope to learn more about the mechanisms, which may contribute to development and progression of head and neck cancer. The long-term goal of this study will be to develop new strategies and drugs for the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Reduced-Dose Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy With or Without Cisplatin in Treating Patients With Advanced Oropharyngeal Cancer Not Recruiting
More
This randomized phase II trial studies the side effects and how well modestly reduced-dose intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with or without cisplatin works in treating patients with oropharyngeal cancer that has spread to other places in the body (advanced). Radiation therapy uses high energy x rays to kill tumor cells. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells, by stopping them from dividing, or by stopping them from spreading. It is not yet known whether IMRT is more effective with or without cisplatin in treating patients with oropharyngeal cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Polly Young, 650-497-7499.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- A. Dimitrios Colevas, MD
View full details
Modified Dakin's Solution in Reducing Radiation-Induced Dermatitis in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Undergoing Radiation Therapy Not Recruiting
More
This randomized phase 3 trial studies how well modified Dakin's solution works in reducing radiation-induced dermatitis, a common skin reaction to radiation therapy, in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiation therapy. Modified Dakin's solution may reduce inflammation in the body, which may prevent or reduce dermatitis after radiation therapy. Radiation therapy in this study is regulatory medical care based on the patient's needs and the radiation oncologist's judgment. It is not possible nor necessary to explicitly define the dose or duration of treatment.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Amanda Simmons, 650-724-4606.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Treatment Outcomes and Quality of Life After IMRT Treatments of Head and Neck Cancers Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of the research study is to evaluate effectiveness and the quality of life, specifically the risk of dry mouth, after radiation treatment for head and neck cancers.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Quynh-Thu Le, 6504986184.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
Palifermin for the Reduction of Oral Mucositis in Patients With Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of this research study is to test the safety and effectiveness of palifermin to determine if weekly doses can be safely administered to reduce the incidence (occurrence of), duration (length of time) and severity (amount of pain) of oral mucositis (painful sores in the mouth). Mucositis is a common side effect for patients receiving chemotherapy (cancer-killing drug) and radiotherapy (cancer-killing x-rays) for the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC).

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Rachel Freiberg, 6507254777.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- Harlan Pinto
View full details
Testing Docetaxel-Cetuximab or the Addition of an Immunotherapy Drug, Atezolizumab, to the Usual Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy in High-Risk Head and Neck Cancer Recruiting
More
This phase II/III trial studies how well radiation therapy works when given together with cisplatin, docetaxel, cetuximab, and/or atezolizumab after surgery in treating patients with high-risk stage III-IV head and neck cancer the begins in the thin, flat cells (squamous cell). Specialized radiation therapy that delivers a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor may kill more tumor cells and cause less damage to normal tissue. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin and docetaxel, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody that may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies, such as atezolizumab, may help the body's immune system attack the cancer, and may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. The purpose of this study is to compare the usual treatment (radiation therapy with cisplatin chemotherapy) to using radiation therapy with docetaxel and cetuximab chemotherapy, and using the usual treatment plus an immunotherapy drug, atezolizumab.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Imaging and Biomarkers of Hypoxia in Solid Tumors Not Recruiting
More
Hypoxia, meaning a lack of oxygen, has been associated strongly with a wide range of human cancers. Hypoxia occurs when tumor growth exceeds the ability of blood vessels to supply the tumor with oxygenated blood. It is currently understood that hypoxic tumors are more aggressive. Current methods for measuring hypoxia include invasive procedures such as tissue biopsy, or insertion of an electrode into the tumor. EF5-PET may be a non-invasive way to measure tumor hypoxia.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Justin Carter, 650-725-4796.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Individualized Treatment in Treating Patients With Stage II-IVB Nasopharyngeal Cancer Based on EBV DNA Not Recruiting
More
There are two study questions we are asking in this randomized phase II/III trial based on a blood biomarker, Epstein Barr virus (EBV) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) for locoregionally advanced non-metastatic nasopharyngeal cancer. All patients will first undergo standard concurrent chemotherapy and radiation therapy. When this standard treatment is completed, if there is no detectable EBV DNA in their plasma, then patients are randomized to either standard adjuvant cisplatin and fluorouracil chemotherapy or observation. If there is still detectable levels of plasma EBV DNA, patients will be randomized to standard cisplatin and fluorouracil chemotherapy versus gemcitabine and paclitaxel. Radiation therapy uses high energy x rays to kill tumor cells. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as cisplatin, fluorouracil, gemcitabine hydrochloride, and paclitaxel work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells, by stopping them from dividing, or by stopping them from spreading. It is not yet known whether giving cisplatin and fluorouracil is more effective than gemcitabine hydrochloride and paclitaxel after radiation therapy in treating patients with nasopharyngeal cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Polly Young, 650-497-7499.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
TRYHARD: Radiation Therapy Plus Cisplatin With or Without Lapatinib in Treating Patients With Head and Neck Cancer. Not Recruiting
More
PURPOSE: This trial is studying if and how well lapatinib adds to the effectiveness of radiation therapy plus cisplatin in patients who have head and neck cancer that is not related to the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Alice Banh, 650-725-7805.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
The Role of FDG PET in Radiation Treatment Planning for Head and Neck Cancers Not Recruiting
More
In patients with cancer of the head and neck and rectum, knowing the exact location of the tumor is important for designing the radiation field to ensure delivery of high dose of radiation to the tumor while sparing surrounding normal tissues. A new medical imaging method which is a combination of positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) scan, has shown promise in helping the radiation oncologist in defining the exact location and extent of the tumor in certain cancers such as lung cancers. Therefore the purpose of this study is to determine if these imaging methods can be used in combination with the standard radiation treatment planning procedure to improve the accuracy to targeting your tumor with radiation. In addition the PET-CT scan, similar to the PET scan alone with better resolution, can be used to determine whether the tumor has spread to any part of the body outside of the head and neck sites.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Quynh-Thu Le, 6504986184.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- Billy W Loo, Jr, MD PhD FASTRO FACR
View full details
Feasibility of IMRT Modulation to Account for Scattered Radiation From Dental Fillings in Head and Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
The main objective of this study is to determine the feasibility of optimizing the IMRT treatment plan based on dosimeter measurements of mucosal radiation dose adjacent to the dental fillings to reduce such dose to < 35 Gy without compromising tumor coverage and/or increasing the dose to the remaining oral cavity or nearby parotid glands.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Cato Chan, 650-724-4606.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
Radiation Therapy, Paclitaxel, and Carboplatin With or Without Trastuzumab in Treating Patients With Esophageal Cancer Not Recruiting
More
This randomized phase III trial studies how well radiation therapy, paclitaxel, and carboplatin with or without trastuzumab work in treating patients with esophageal cancer. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as paclitaxel and carboplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells, by stopping them from dividing, or by stopping them from spreading. Monoclonal antibodies, such as trastuzumab, may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. It is not yet known whether giving radiation therapy and combination chemotherapy together with or without trastuzumab is more effective in treating esophageal cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Polly Young, 650-497-7499.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- George A. Fisher Jr.
View full details
Metabolic Reprogramming Therapy for Treatment of Recurrent Head and Neck Cancers Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of this study is to study the effect of the drug DCA (dichloroacetate) on recurrent head and neck cancers. Part of this study will also use EF5 PET scan to study tumor hypoxia.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Alice Banh, 650-723-1423.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Individualized Lung Tumor Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (iSABR) Not Recruiting
More
A research study of a procedure to treating lung cancer with focused radiation called Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of individualizing the dose of radiation used to treat lung tumors with SABR based on tumor-specific factors. While recent research has identified SABR as a promising method to increase local control (LC) of lung cancer, further research has indicated that tumor volume is a prognostic factor, with increased size/volume of tumor being associated with poorer outcomes. This study explores if a volume-adapted strategy for the radiologic exposure (dose) will improve efficacy in larger tumors (ie, > 10 cc). This is a study of the procedure stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR). It is not a study of a specific drug or device.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Samantha Wong, 650-498-8495.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Identification of Serum Markers For Tumor Hypoxia in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancers Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of the study is to identify a surrogate serum marker for tumor hypoxia in patients with lung cancers.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Rachel Freiberg, 6507254777.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
View full details
A Longitudinal Study of Plasma EBV DNA in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma From Both Endemic and Non-Endemic Patient Populations Not Recruiting
More
1. To determine the prognostic implication of plasma Epstein-Bar Virus (EBV) DNA concentrations, as measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). 2. To relate pretreatment plasma EBV DNA concentration to WHO classification of these tumors both in endemic and non-endemic areas. 3. To determine whether pretreatment plasma EBV DNA can serve as a prognostic factor for both endemic and non-endemic patient populations.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Quynh-Thu Le, 650-498-6184.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Lapatinib and Radiation for Stage III-IV Head and Neck Cancer Patients Who Cannot Tolerate Concurrent Chemotherapy Not Recruiting
More
We propose to combine lapatinib with RT alone in patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer who cannot tolerate chemotherapy. The main objective of the study is to determine the efficacy of combining concurrent radiation and lapatinib in terms of time-to-progression (TTP) in this group of patients. In addition, we will determine the 2-year locoregional control rate (LRC), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in these patients. We will also evaluate the profile and frequency of late toxicity, specifically mucosal and dermatologic toxicity, of the combination of lapatinib and RT in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Brian Khong, 6507254777.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Induction Chemotherapy Followed By Cetuximab and Radiation in HPV-Associated Resectable Stage III/IV Oropharynx Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as paclitaxel and cisplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Monoclonal antibodies, such as cetuximab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Giving paclitaxel, cisplatin, and cetuximab together with radiation therapy may kill more tumor cells. PURPOSE: This phase II trial is studying paclitaxel, cisplatin, and cetuximab to see how well they work when followed by cetuximab and two different doses of intensity-modulated radiation therapy in treating patients with HPV-associated stage III or stage IV cancer of the oropharynx that can be removed by surgery.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Lauren Pernicka, 6507216977.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy With or Without Panitumumab in Treating Patients With Stage IIIA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Drugs used in chemotherapy (CT), such as paclitaxel and carboplatin, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Radiation therapy (RT) uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Monoclonal antibodies, such as panitumumab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. Giving these treatments before surgery may make the tumor smaller and reduce the amount of normal tissue that needs to be removed. It is not yet known whether chemotherapy and radiation therapy are more effective when given with or without panitumumab in treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer. PURPOSE: This randomized phase II trial is studying chemotherapy and radiation therapy to see how well they work when given with or without panitumumab in treating patients with stage IIIA non-small cell lung cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Laura Gable, 6507360798.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Cisplatin and ZD1839 + Re-Irradiation in Recurrent Squamous Cell Cancer of the Head and Neck Not Recruiting
More
To determine safety profile of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antagonist, ZD1839 in combination with cisplatin and radiation therapy in patients with local-regional recurrent squamous cell cancer of the head and neck. To study the effects of ZD1839 combined with either cisplatin or radiotherapy on signal transduction pathway gene expression in tumor cells in patients with local-regional recurrent squamous cell cancer of the head and neck using micro array analysis from tumor samples taken at the time of relapse and during treatment.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Priscilla Wong, 6507254777.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Cyberknife Radiosurgery for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Not Recruiting
More
The purpose of the trial is to test the efficacy of combining conventional chemoradiotherapy with radiosurgery for locally advanced pancreas cancer.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Stanford Cancer Clinical Trials Office, 6504987061.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
View full details
Real-Time kV Imaging vs. Real-Time 3D Patient Surface Tracking for Head & Neck Cancer Not Recruiting
More
To determine if a new optical system that can track a patient's movement during treatment can be used to measure motion and allow for motion adjustments in order to decrease the amount of healthy tissue that receives radiation without limiting our ability to cure cancers using radiation.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Brian Khong, 6507254777.

Lead Sponsor
- Stanford University
Stanford Investigators
- Quynh-Thu Le, MD
- Lei Xing
View full details
Avoiding the Hippocampus During Whole-Brain Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients With Brain Metastases Not Recruiting
More
RATIONALE: Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. PURPOSE: This phase II trial is studying how well avoiding the hippocampus during whole-brain radiation therapy works in treating patients with brain metastases.

Stanford is currently not accepting patients for this trial. For more information, please contact Jacob Wynne, 6507238843.
Lead Sponsor
Stanford Investigators
View full details

2022-23 Courses

Independent Studies
- Directed Reading in Cancer Biology
  CBIO 299 (Aut, Win)
- Directed Reading in Otolaryngology
  OTOHNS 299 (Win)
- Directed Reading in Radiation Oncology
  RADO 299 (Aut, Win)
- Early Clinical Experience in Radiation Oncology
  RADO 280 (Aut, Win)
- Graduate Research
  CBIO 399 (Win)
- Graduate Research
  OTOHNS 399 (Win)
- Graduate Research
  RADO 399 (Aut, Win)
- Medical Scholars Research
  OTOHNS 370 (Win)
- Medical Scholars Research
  RADO 370 (Aut, Win)
- Readings in Radiation Biology
  RADO 101 (Aut, Win)
- Undergraduate Research
  OTOHNS 199 (Win)
- Undergraduate Research
  RADO 199 (Aut, Win)

Stanford Advisees

Postdoctoral Faculty Sponsor
Yuyan Jiang, Jimpi Langthasa

Graduate and Fellowship Programs

Cancer Biology (Phd Program)