This phase I/II trial studies the side effect and best dose of steroid therapy (prednisone or methylprednisolone) in improving symptoms of late radiation-associated lower cranial neuropathy in oropharyngeal cancer survivors. Steroid therapy with prednisone or methylprednisolone may help to improve symptoms associated with late radiation-associated lower cranial neuropathy.
INCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: Disease free adult survivors of oropharyngeal cancer
INCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: Treated with radiotherapy >= 2 years post treatment (disease status per surveillance imaging and clinical surveillance)
INCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: Late radiation-associated lower cranial neuropathy of XII with or without X nerve (LCNP cases will be considered therapy-related when imaging, physical examination, and/or biopsy fail to demonstrate structural or malignant source)
INCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: Willing and able to return for assessment post-steroid therapy
EXCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: Uncontrolled diabetes
EXCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: Uncontrolled hypertension (systolic > 160; diastolic > 90)
EXCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: Known gastrointestinal ulcer
EXCLUSION CRITERIA FOR CLINICAL TRIAL: History of psychosis
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator