Clinical Research Directory

External Beam Radiation Therapy and Brachytherapy With Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy for the Treatment of Stage IVB Cervical Cancer

This phase I/II trial tests the safety and effectiveness of receiving external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy along with chemotherapy, consisting of cisplatin and paclitaxel, and immunotherapy, consisting of bevacizumab and pembrolizumab, for the treatment of patients with stage IVB cervical cancer. EBRT is type of radiation therapy that uses a machine to aim high-energy rays at the cancer from outside of the body. Brachytherapy, also known as internal radiation therapy, uses radioactive material placed directly into or near a tumor to kill tumor cells. Cisplatin is in a class of medications known as platinum-containing compounds. It works by killing, stopping or slowing the growth of tumor cells. Paclitaxel is in a class of medications called antimicrotubule agents. It stops tumor cells from growing and dividing and may kill them. Bevacizumab is in a class of medications called antiangiogenic agents. It works by stopping the formation of blood vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to tumor. This may slow the growth and spread of tumor. A monoclonal antibody, such as pembrolizumab, is a type of protein that can bind to certain targets in the body, such as molecules that cause the body to make an immune response (antigens). Giving EBRT and brachytherapy along with chemotherapy and immunotherapy may be a safe and effective way to treat patients with stage IVB cervical cancer.