Evaluation for NCI Surgery Branch Clinical Research Protocols

Background: Potential research candidates undergo thorough screening including laboratory tests, scans, x-rays, and review of pathology slides to determine initial eligibility for National Cancer Institute Surgery Branch (NCI-SB) research protocols. Objectives: Permit evaluation of patients referred to the NCI-SB in order to identify individuals who will be suitable candidates for NCI-SB clinical research protocols. To assess frequency of HLA type, gene specific mutations or expression of neo antigens in malignant tumors across the population of cancer patients undergoing screening for NCI-SB protocols. Collect results of screening tests for use on subsequent research protocol as baseline (e.g., pretreatment) values. Eligibility: Age \>= 18 years. Patient suspected of having, or with biopsy proven, malignant disease. Patient is able to understand and willing to sign a written informed consent document. Patient is being evaluated for treatment on an NCI-SB protocols.. Design: Patients enrolled on this protocol will be evaluated by NCI-SB physicians to determine the individual's suitability for participation in a clinical research protocol. An accrual ceiling of 7,000 patients has been set to meet the screening needs of the NCI-SB.