Lead researcher
Professor J Simes (2005, 2007), Professor John Zalcberg (2005, 2007), P Waring (2005), A/Prof B Mann (2005, 2007), A/ Prof M Smithers (2005, 2007), D Kotasek (2005, 2007), Dr Guy Van Hazel (WA) (2007)
Institution
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Years funded
2005-07
Gastro-intestinal stromal tumours (GIST) are rare cancers affecting about 100 Australians annually, Until recently surgery to remove GIST was the only effective treatment.
In 50% of people having an operation the disease returns within 5 years. Imatinib mesylate (IM) is a drug targeting a part of the biochemical pathway that influences tumour growth.
The drug prolongs life in people whose GIST is no longer operable. This study compares the impact of imatinib mesylate given after surgery to surgery alone on length of life in people at high risk of the GIST returning.
Scientific description
Intermediate and high risk, resected gastro-intestinal stromal tumours expressing kit: RCT of adjuvant imatinib mesylate.
Collaborators
G Van Hazel (2005)
Award / Duration
Multi-State Research Grant: 2005-2007
Funding
13334