Cellular Pathology, Skull Base Neoplasm
Conditions
Brief summary
The purpose of the study is to analyze biological samples and genetic material for basic science research investigating the molecular and cellular characterization of skull base tumors.
Detailed description
The overall goal of this proposal is to determine new molecular and cellular features that define tumor subtypes that are clinically actionable, may drive important changes in patient management, and/or elucidate novel chemotherapeutic options. Skull base tumors are currently diagnosed based on histopathologic criteria, on which post-operative management is based. However, the investigators hypothesize that each tumor type (eg. chordoma or chondrosarcoma) will have molecular and/or cellular subcategories that will redefine how to categorize and diagnose patients, predict clinical outcome, and optimally design a patient-specific management strategy. In addition, we aim to catalogue changes that occur after treatment after surgical resection, chemotherapy, and/or radiation by comparing primary and recurrent tumors.
Interventions
OTHERObservation
Understanding the biology of skull base tumors will teach the investigators about the genesis and/or mechanisms of treatment resistance. The investigators hope to ultimately identify new targets which will add to the armamentarium by which to treat these tumors.
Sponsors
University of Pittsburgh
Study design
Observational model
COHORT
Time perspective
PROSPECTIVE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Inclusion criteria
* Diagnosis of a skull base tumor
Exclusion criteria
* Insufficient tumor sample at time of resection
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Patient overall survival will be measured and reported. | Through study completion, an average of 10 years | There will be one outcome measure: overall survival. |
Countries
United States
Contacts
Primary ContactBenita Valappil, MPH
Outcome results
None listed