Study on Radiation Therapy With or Without Olaparib for Treating Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Program Overview

This study is investigating if combining radiation therapy with a drug called olaparib can better treat inflammatory breast cancer compared to using radiation therapy alone. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells, while olaparib is a targeted therapy that blocks an enzyme called PARP, which helps repair damaged DNA in cancer cells. By blocking PARP, olaparib may prevent cancer cells from repairing themselves, leading to their death. The study will compare the effectiveness of these treatments in preventing cancer from returning and improving survival rates.

Description

The main goal of this study is to see if adding olaparib to radiation therapy can help patients with inflammatory breast cancer live longer without the cancer coming back. The study will also look at how well the combination controls cancer in the chest area and improves overall survival.

Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:

• Group 1: Will take olaparib pills twice a day starting the day before radiation therapy begins and continue throughout the 6-week radiation treatment, including weekends.
• Group 2: Will receive standard radiation therapy alone for 6 weeks.

All participants will have blood samples taken during the study to help researchers understand the treatment's effects.

After finishing the treatment, participants will have follow-up visits within 5 weeks, then every 3 months for 3 years, and every 6 months for up to 8 years to monitor their health and any signs of cancer returning.

Eligibility Criteria

Locations