Patients sought for Cancer Vaccine Trial

The first clinical trial of a new vaccine designed to treat prostate cancer was initiated in January this year by Mr Roger Kirby, Consultant Urologist at St. George's Hospital, London.  So far over 20 patients have been enrolled and a further 40 will be added over the next six months.

The trial is a combined Phase I, Phase II trial in which both drug efficacy and potential side effects are assessed amongst a small group of patients.  Should the results of this trial be successful it would be necessary to carry out large scale Phase III trials over a longer period before the new treatment could come into general use.

To be eligible for the trial patients must already have somewhat advanced (metastatic) disease.  They should be exhibiting a PSA level of over thirty which is rising as an indication that the disease has become resistant to hormone therapy.  The volunteer patients must not currently be taking any drugs which affect the immune system.

The aim of the vaccine, derived from human prostate cancer cells, is to stimulate the immune system to destroy the live cancer cells which are already in the patient's body.

At present patients can be enrolled for the trial only by a referral to Mr Kirby through their oncologist, urologist or GP.

Although it is too early to tell whether the vaccine is effective, so far it has been well tolerated and safe.  To learn more call the office on the number below.