Clinical trial NCT03072160
Conditions: Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC)
Keywords: Anti-PD1/PDL1 Vaccine Therapy TKI-Naive
Sponsor: National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Start date: 2017-06-16; Completion date: 2019-11-22
Enrollment: 17 participants; Allocation: RANDOMIZED; Intervention model: PARALLEL

Brief summary:
Background:

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a tumor of the thyroid gland. Surgery is the only current treatment to cure it. The drug pembrolizumab (MK-3475) is a new type of cancer therapy. It works by allowing the immune system to detect and kill tumor cells.

Objective:

To test how pembrolizumab affects people with MTC and if it can offer them clinical benefit.

Eligibility:

People ages 18 and older with MTC

Patients who have recurrent or metastatic MTC, for whom surgery is not a curative option

Patients with some imaging evidence of MTC

Patients with minimal symptoms related to MTC

Design:

Participants will be screened with:

* Medical history
* Physical exam
* Blood, urine, and heart tests
* Computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): They lie in a machine that takes pictures of the body.
* Bone scan

Participants will be put in a group based on their treatment history:

* Group 1 if they have had an immune stimulating cancer vaccine
* Group 2 if they have had no vaccine

Participants will receive the study drug as a 30-minute intravenous (IV) infusion every 3 weeks. Treatment will continue for up to 2 years as long as they tolerate it and their disease does not get worse.

Participants will have physical exams and blood tests on the day of each infusion. They will have CT and bone scans every 3 months.

Participants may save biopsies before treatment and after starting treatment.

Participants will have a final visit 3-4 weeks after stopping treatment. This will include a physical exam and blood and heart tests.

After this study, participants can join a long-term follow-up study.

Detailed description:
Background:

* Anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PDL1) therapies have had clinical success in a minority of unselected patients across multiple tumor types
* While many questions remain about optimal PD1/PDL1 staining techniques to pre-select responders, less focus is being place on how to optimize responses in a broader cohort of patients
* Emerging preclinical and clinical data supports the hypothesis that a strong immunologic response in the tumor microenvironment induces PDL1 expression on the tumor and is associated with better clinical response to anti-PD1/PDL1 therapies
* Therapeutic cancer vaccines are one strategy to induce an immunologic response to the tumor, thereby enhancing PDL1 expression and optimizing clinical responses across all patients
* Limited clinical data exists about the potential benefit of sequential therapy with a therapeutic cancer vaccine followed by PD1/PDL1 inhibition
* This study will explore the role of PD1 inhibition in medullary thyroid cancer and evaluate the potential differences based on previous vaccine therapy

Objective:

-The primary objective of this trial is to determine whether administering a PD1 inhibitor to patients with medullary thyroid cancer will permit a modest fraction to be able to experience a 50% or greater decline in calcitonin levels or experience a partial/complete response on imaging

Key Eligibility:

* Patients greater than or equal to 18 years of age with evidence of metastatic medullary thyroid cancer including disease that is evaluable on bone, computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
* Must have elevated calcitonin levels greater than 40 pg/mL
* Patients with minimal or no disease related-symptoms (minimal symptoms will include those that do not affect activities of daily living or pain that does not require regularly schedule narcotics)
* Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) 0-1
* Should have no autoimmune diseases; no evidence of being immunocompromised; no serious inter-current medical illness
* No brain metastasis, history of seizures, encephalitis, or multiple sclerosis

Design:

* This is a phase II, open label, single center clinical trial where all patients receive the anti-PD1/PDL1 therapy pembrolizumab
* Patients will enroll in one of two cohorts: patients with previous vaccine therapy or patients without previous vaccine therapy
* All patients will be TKI naive with minimal symptoms (consistent with the eligibility for our current study)
* Based on our calcitonin findings with our current study of 30 patients, we have determined that a confirmed calcitonin decline of 50% would be a rare finding, providing compelling preliminary evidence of clinical activity
* A total of 30 patients will be enrolled in the proposed study (15 patients in each cohort). Given that we already have 30 patients on a study with vaccine, we would only need to identify and recruit 15 patients for the vaccine-naive cohort.
* Based on these metrics, we could have \>6 months of calcitonin data in 30 patients within 2 years from trial initiation
* Additional immune correlative capitalizing on the extensive immune monitoring experience of the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology (LTIB) will allow for assessments of antigen specific T-cells and 123 immune subsets. These findings could provide the basis for biomarker development when taken together with biochemical and clinical responses seen in this study

Arms: arm 1: Pembrolizumab 200 mg will be administered as a 30 minute intravenous (IV) infusion every 3 weeks for two years.

Group 1: cancer vaccine arm 2: Pembrolizumab 200 mg will be administered as a 30 minute intravenous (IV) infusion every 3 weeks for two years.

Group 2: had no previous vaccine
Interventions: intervention 1: Pembrolizumab
Intervention descriptions: intervention 1: Pembrolizumab 200 mg will be administered as a 30 minute intravenous (IV) infusion every 3 weeks.

Protocol documents:
Prot_SAP_000.pdf: 
1
Abbreviated Title: Pembrolizumab in MTC
CC Protocol #: 17-C-0061
Version Date: 3.26.18
NCT #: NCT03072160
Amendment: D
Title: Phase II Trial of Pembrolizumab in Recurrent or Metastatic Medullary Thyroid 
Cancer
NCI Principal Investigator:
Ravi A. Madan, M.D.
Genitourinary Malignancies Branch (GMB)
National Cancer Institute
10 Center Drive
Building 10, Room 13N240
Bethesda, MD 20892
Phone: (301) 480-7168
Email: madanr@mail.nih.gov
Commercial Agent: Pembrolizumab will be supplied by the manufacturer, Merck


Abbreviated Title: Pembrolizumab in MTC
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2
PRÉCIS 
Background:
x
Anti PD1/PDL1 therapies have had clinical success in a minority of unselected patients 
across multiple tumor types
x
While many questions remain about optimal PD1/PDL1 staining techniques to pre-select 
responders, less focus is being place on how to optimize responses in a broader cohort of 
patients
x
Emerging preclinical and clinical data supports the hypothesis that a strong immunologic 
response in the tumor microenvironment induces PDL1 expression on the tumor and is 
associated with better clinical response to anti-PD1/PDL1 therapies
x
Therapeutic cancer vaccines are one strategy to induce an immunologic response to the 
tumor, thereby enhancing PDL1 expression and optimizing clinical responses across all 
patients
x
Limited clinical data exists about the potential benefit of sequential therapy with a 
therapeutic cancer vaccine followed by PD1/PDL1 inhibition
x
This study will explore the role of PD1 inhibition in medullary thyroid cancer and 
evaluate the potential differences based on previous vaccine therapy
Objective:
x
The primary objective of this trial is to determine whether administering a PD1 inhibitor 
to patients with medullary thyroid cancer will permit a modest fraction to be able to 
experience a 50% or greater decline in calcitonin levels or experience a partial/complete
response on imaging 
Key Eligibility:
x
Patients \HDUVRIDJH with evidence of metastatic medullary thyroid cancer including 
disease that is evaluable on bone, CT scan or MRI
x
Must have elevated calcitonin levels greater than 40 pg/mL
x
Patients with minimal or no disease related-symptoms (minimal symptoms will include 
those that do not affect activities of daily living or pain that does not require regularly 
schedule narcotics)
x
ECOG 0-1
x
Should have no autoimmune diseases; no evidence of being immunocompromised; no 
serious inter-current medical illness
x
No brain metastasis, history of seizures, encephalitis, or multiple sclerosis
Design:
x
This is a phase II, open label, single center clinical trial where all patients receive the 
anti-PD1/PDL1 therapy pembrolizumab


Abbreviated Title: Pembrolizumab in MTC
Version Date: 3/26/18
3
x
Patients will enroll in one of two cohorts:  patients with previous vaccine therapy or 
patients without previous vaccine therapy
x
All patients will be TKI -naïve, with minimal symptoms (consistent with the eligibility 
for our current study)
x
Based on our calcitonin findings with our current study of 30 patients, we have 
determined that a confirmed calcitonin decline of 50% would be a rare finding, providing 
compelling preliminary evidence of clinical activity
x
A total of 30 patients will be enrolled in the proposed study (15 patients in each cohort).
Given that we already have 30 patients on a study with vaccine, we would only need to 
identify and recruit 15 naïve patients for the vaccine-naïve cohort.  This accrual could be 
done in 18 months based on our current accrual rates
x
Based on these metrics, we could have >6 months of calcitonin data in 30 patients within 
2 years from trial initiation
x
Additional immune correlative capitalizing on the extensive immune monitoring 
experience of the LTIB will allow for assessments of antigen specific T-cells and 123
immune subsets.  These findings could provide the basis for biomarker development 
when taken together with biochemical and clinical responses seen in this study
SCHEMA
Treatment Duration with Pembrolizumab: 2 years (at 3 week intervals)


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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRÉCIS........................................................................................................................................... 2 
SCHEMA........................................................................................................................................ 3 
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................ 4 
1 
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 8 
1.1 
Study Objectives .............................................................................................................. 8 
1.1.1 
Primary Objectives.................................................................................................... 8 
1.1.2 
Secondary Objectives................................................................................................ 8 
1.2 
Background and Rationale ............................................................................................... 8 
1.2.1 
Rationale for Dose Selection/Regimen/Modification............................................. 17 
2 
ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT AND ENROLLMENT....................................................... 19 
2.1 
Eligibility Criteria .......................................................................................................... 19 
2.1.1 
Inclusion Criteria .................................................................................................... 19 
2.1.2 
Exclusion Criteria ................................................................................................... 20 
2.1.3 
Recruitment Strategies............................................................................................ 22 
2.2 
Registration Procedures.................................................................................................. 22 
2.3 
Screening Evaluation...................................................................................................... 23 
2.3.1 
The following tests may be obtained any time prior to initiation of study therapy:23 
2.3.2 
The following parameters will be obtained within 8 weeks prior to initiation of 
study therapy:........................................................................................................................ 23 
2.3.3 
The following parameters will be obtained within 10 days prior to initiation of 
study therapy:........................................................................................................................ 23 
2.4 
Treatment Assignment and Randomization/Stratification Procedures: ......................... 24 
2.5 
Baseline Evaluation........................................................................................................ 24 
3 
STUDY IMPLEMENTATION ............................................................................................ 25 
3.1 
Study Design .................................................................................................................. 25 
3.2 
Trial Treatments............................................................................................................. 25 
3.3 
Drug Administration ...................................................................................................... 25 
3.3.1 
Dose Modifications................................................................................................. 26 
3.3.2 
Dosing Delay .......................................................................................................... 28 
3.4 
Study Calendar............................................................................................................... 29 
3.5 
Criteria for Removal from Protocol Therapy and Off Study Criteria............................ 31 


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3.5.1 
Criteria for removal from protocol therapy ............................................................ 31 
3.5.2 
Off-Study Criteria................................................................................................... 31 
3.5.3 
Off Protocol Therapy and Off-Study Procedure..................................................... 31 
4 
CONCOMITANT MEDICATIONS/MEASURES.............................................................. 32 
4.1.1 
Acceptable Concomitant Medications .................................................................... 32 
4.1.2 
Prohibited Concomitant Medications ..................................................................... 32 
4.1.3 
Supportive Care Guidelines.................................................................................... 33 
5 
BIOSPECIMEN COLLECTION.......................................................................................... 36 
5.1 
Collection of Research (Immunologic) Blood Samples (all patients)............................ 36 
5.1.1 
Immunologic Parameters (every 3 weeks unless not logistically feasible) ............ 37 
5.1.2 
Natural Killer (NK) CELLS.................................................................................... 37 
5.1.3 
Immune Subsets...................................................................................................... 37 
5.1.4 
Regulatory T Cells.................................................................................................. 37 
5.1.5 
Additional Assays ................................................................................................... 38 
5.1.6 
Biopsy analysis by interventional radiology (Optional)......................................... 38 
5.1.7 
Immunohistochemistry ........................................................................................... 38 
5.2 
Sample Storage, Tracking and Disposition.................................................................... 38 
5.2.1 
Procedures for storage of tissue specimens in the Laboratory of Pathology.......... 38 
5.2.2 
Blood Processing Core - Storage............................................................................ 39 
5.2.3 
Samples Sent to Clinical Services Program (CSP)................................................. 40 
5.2.4 
Protocol Completion/Sample Destruction .............................................................. 41 
6 
DATA COLLECTION AND EVALUATION..................................................................... 42 
6.1 
Data Collection............................................................................................................... 42 
6.2 
Data Sharing Plans ......................................................................................................... 43 
6.2.1 
Human Data Sharing Plan....................................................................................... 43 
6.2.2 
Genomic Data Sharing Plan.................................................................................... 43 
6.3 
Response Criteria ........................................................................................................... 44 
6.3.1 
Serum Calcitonin .................................................................................................... 44 
6.3.2 
Imaging ................................................................................................................... 44 
6.3.3 
Disease Parameters ................................................................................................. 46 
6.3.4 
Methods for Evaluation of Measurable Disease..................................................... 47 
6.3.5 
Duration of Response.............................................................................................. 49 


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6.3.6 
Progression-Free Survival....................................................................................... 49 
6.4 
Toxicity Criteria............................................................................................................. 49 
7 
SAFETY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS/DATA AND SAFETY MONITORING PLAN
49 
7.1 
Definitions...................................................................................................................... 49 
7.1.1 
Adverse Event......................................................................................................... 49 
7.1.2 
Suspected adverse reaction ..................................................................................... 50 
7.1.3 
Unexpected adverse reaction .................................................................................. 50 
7.1.4 
Serious..................................................................................................................... 50 
7.1.5 
Serious Adverse Event............................................................................................ 50 
7.1.6 
Disability................................................................................................................. 50 
7.1.7 
Life-threatening adverse drug experience............................................................... 51 
7.1.8 
Protocol Deviation (NIH Definition)...................................................................... 51 
7.1.9 
Non-compliance (NIH Definition).......................................................................... 51 
7.1.10 Unanticipated Problem............................................................................................ 51 
7.2 
NCI-IRB and Clinical Director (CD) Reporting............................................................ 51 
7.2.1 
NCI-IRB and NCI CD Expedited Reporting of Unanticipated Problems and Deaths
51 
7.2.2 
NCI-IRB Requirements for PI Reporting at Continuing Review........................... 51 
7.3 
Safety Reporting Criteria to the Pharmaceutical Collaborator....................................... 52 
7.3.1 
Serious Adverse Events .......................................................................................... 52 
7.3.2 
Reporting of Overdose............................................................................................ 52 
7.3.3 
Reporting of Pregnancy and Lactation ................................................................... 52 
7.4 
Data and Safety Monitoring Plan................................................................................... 53 
7.4.1 
Principal Investigator/Research Team.................................................................... 53 
8 
STATISTICAL CONSIDERATIONS.................................................................................. 53 
9 
COLLABORATIVE AGREEMENTS................................................................................. 54 
9.1 
Clinical Trials Agreement (CTA) .................................................................................. 54 
10 HUMAN SUBJECTS PROTECTIONS ............................................................................... 54 
10.1 
Rationale For Subject Selection ................................................................................. 54 
10.2 
Participation of Children ............................................................................................ 54 
10.3 
Participation of Subjects Unable to Give Consent ..................................................... 54 


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10.4 
Evaluation of Benefits and Risks/Discomforts........................................................... 55 
10.4.1 Optional Biopsies.................................................................................................... 55 
10.5 
Risks/Benefits Analysis.............................................................................................. 55 
10.6 
Consent Process and Documentation ......................................................................... 55 
10.6.1 Telephone Re-Consent Procedure........................................................................... 56 
10.6.2 Informed Consent of Non-English Speaking Subjects ........................................... 56 
10.7 
Contraception.............................................................................................................. 56 
10.8 
Use In Pregnancy........................................................................................................ 58 
10.9 
Use In Nursing Women.............................................................................................. 58 
11 PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION............................................................................. 58 
11.1 
Pembrolizumab (MK-3475) ....................................................................................... 58 
11.1.1 Source ..................................................................................................................... 58 
11.1.2 Toxicity................................................................................................................... 59 
11.1.3 Formulation and preparation................................................................................... 61 
11.1.4 Stability and Storage............................................................................................... 61 
11.1.5 Administration procedures...................................................................................... 62 
11.1.6 Incompatibilities ..................................................................................................... 62 
11.1.7 Clinical Supplies Disclosure................................................................................... 62 
11.1.8 Returns and Reconciliation..................................................................................... 63 
12 APPENDIX A: PERFORMANCE STATUS CRITERIA.................................................... 64 
13 APPENDIX B: INSTRUCTIONS FOR PRE-STUDY AND FOLLOW-UP BLOOD TESTS
65 
14 REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................... 66 


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1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Study Objectives
1.1.1
Primary Objectives
x
Determine whether administering a PD1 inhibitor to patients with medullary thyroid 
cancer will permit a modest fraction to be able to experience a 50% or greater decline in 
calcitonin levels or experience partial/complete response on imaging. Based on our 
calcitonin findings with our current study of 30 patients, we have determined that a
confirmed calcitonin decline of 50% would be a rare finding, providing compelling 
preliminary evidence of clinical activity.
1.1.2
Secondary Objectives
x
Determine the impact of previous therapeutic cancer vaccine on response rates
x
Evaluate immune responses in each cohort
x
Evaluate changes in CEA and Calcitonin kinetics
x
Evaluate impact on progression free survival and overall survival
x
Evaluate the safety of anti-PD1/PDL1 therapy pembrolizumab
1.2
Background and Rationale
Background
Therapies targeting the PDL1/PD1 axis have become the primary focus of clinical 
immunotherapy development as a substantial amount of academic and industry resources are 
being used to develop these therapies.  Several diseases have been noted for their impressive 
responses in individual patients (bladder cancer, lung cancer and melanoma) and emerging data 
suggest benefit across a broad range of tumors.  Despite these impressive findings, regardless of 
tumor type, only a minority of patients have response to this therapy.1 A lot of effort is being 
expended to develop a biomarker predicting response (such as PDL1 expression by the tumor) 
but techniques and standards remain elusive.   A key focus of this study is to determine if 
therapeutic cancer vaccines can enhance responses to pembrolizumab, providing a proof of 
concept that sequential therapy with vaccine followed by checkpoint inhibition can optimize 
clinical and immunologic responses.  If this hypothesis is correct, this study could define a 
technique substantially enhance the proportion of patients who respond the immune checkpoint 
inhibition with agents such as pembrolizumab.
Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a neuroendocrine tumor of the parafollicular or C 
cells of the thyroid gland. MTC accounts for approximately 4% of thyroid carcinomas. Its 
estimated incidence in the United States for 2010 is about 1,300 to 2,200 patients. Sporadic MTC 
accounts for about 80% of all cases of the disease. The typical age of presentation is in the fifth 


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9
or sixth decade, and there may be a slight female preponderance.2 Surgery is the only curative 
treatment for MTC and consists of total thyroidectomy with bilateral central lymphadenectomy. 3
When there is no anatomic evidence of disease, despite detectable serum calcitonin or 
CEA, the best current option is observation.4 Therapeutic interventions at this stage of disease 
have not demonstrated clinical benefit. Empiric surgical procedures aimed to remove all the 
lymph nodes of the neck and the mediastinum have been proposed, but the results have largely 
been disappointing. These procedures may yield no tumor resection and are unlikely to provide a 
biochemical remission. Patients with rapidly progressive disease by anatomic imaging or 
biochemical doubling time < 2 years should be considered for treatment, ideally in the context of 
a well-designed clinical trial.5
Metastatic MTC is largely unresponsive to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy and 
radiotherapy.6 Until recently, doxorubicin was the only US Food and Drug Administration 
(FDA)–approved treatment for patients with advanced thyroid cancer. Doxorubicin has resulted 
in transient tumor response rates in up to 20% of patients with MTC and is associated with 
significant toxicity.7
Promising results have been reported with vandetanib, an oral inhibitor of VEGFR, RET, 
and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).8,9 An international randomized phase III trial of 
vandetanib (300 mg daily) was performed in patients with either sporadic or hereditary MTC. In 
a preliminary report of results (median follow-up 24 months), median progression-free survival 
was improved in patients randomly assigned to vandetanib versus placebo (hazard ratio 0.45, 
95% CI 0.30 to 0.69). 10 Based on these results, vandetanib was approved by the FDA in April 
2011 for patients with late-stage (metastatic) MTC who are ineligible for surgery and who have 
disease that is growing or causing symptoms.11 Its toxicity profile is extensive including diarrhea 
(56%), rash (45%) nausea (33%), hypertension (32%) headache (26%), fatigue (24%), decreased 
appetite (21%); Grade 3 toxicities include diarrhea (11%), hypertension (9%) and fatigue (6%).  
Therefore, toxicity limits its use in patients with small volume, asymptomatic or indolent disease.
Similarly cabozantinib has demonstrated improvement in PFS in a population of patients 
with advanced MTC (estimated median PFS was 11.2 months for cabozantinib versus 4.0 
months for placebo (hazard ratio, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.19 to 0.40; P < .001) and is now FDA 
approved in MTC.12 Unfortunately, toxicity was also significant with this treatment with 
common associated adverse events including diarrhea, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, 
decreased weight and appetite, nausea, and fatigue. The impact of toxicity on the patients was 
clearly indicated based on the fact that 70% of patients required dose reductions and dosing 
delays in 65% of patients.
Given the toxicity with these FDA approved agents, patients and practitioners alike often 
delay treatment until patients have symptoms commensurate with the toxicity profile or a rapid 
pace of disease.  As demonstrated by the accrual in our current trial (30 patients in about 2.5 
years) which enrolls patients who are naïve to these TKIs, accruing to this population is feasible, 
representing a therapeutic window of opportunity for the proposed study. 
Vaccine Therapy with GI-6207
A phase I study using the heat-killed yeast-CEA vaccine has completed accrual at the
NCI. 13 A total of 25 patients enrolled in a classic phase I design at 3 dose levels: 4, 16, and 40 


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10
yeast units (divided in 4 injection sites/ each unit =107 yeast particles). GI-6207 was 
administered in equal doses at 4 sites subcutaneously in bilateral inguinal and anterior chest wall 
regions. GI-6207 was administered at 2-week intervals for 3 months, then monthly. Most patients 
were heavily pre-treated with advanced disease, a situation in which GI-6207 induced immune 
response can be difficult to generate. 
Of 25 evaluable patients, 5 patients (3 colon cancer, 1 MTC and 1 non-small cell lung 
cancer) had stable disease beyond 3 months (18, 10, 8, 5, 4 months, respectively).  All 5 pts had 
relative stabilization or declines in serum CEA after treatment.
Toxicity 
GI-6207 was well tolerated and the most common adverse event (AE) was grade 1 or 2 
injection site reaction. The complete list of toxicity (all grades) is listed in Table 1. One patient 
with MTC, who had a large pericardial (5 cm) and pleural based (over 3 cm) mass, developed 
pleural and pericardial effusions (with associated pneumonitis, dyspnea) that may have been 
associated with a robust anti-tumor immune response. (These symptoms resolved within 48 hour 
after steroids were administered).  Another patient with NSCLC developed recurrent pleural 
effusion which responded to oral steroids. The grade 3 back and abdominal pain were observed 
in a patient with rapidly progressing colon cancer with pre-existing ascites which was more 
likely the cause of these two events.
Table 1: Phase I CEA yeast toxicities (all grade toxicities with attribution 3 or higher) 
GRADE 1
GRADE 2
GRADE 3
AE
#  pts
#  events
# pts
#  events
# pts
#  events
Abdominal Pain
0
0
0
0
1
1
Anemia
1
1
0
0
0
0
Back pain
0
0
0
0
1
1
Bruising
1
1
0
0
0
0
Chest Wall Pain
1
1
0
0
0
0
Chills
1
1
0
0
0
0
Dyspnea
0
0
0
0
1
1
Edema
1
1
0
0
0
0
Elevated AST
0
0
1
1
0
0
Fatigue
5
5
0
0
0
0
Fever
1
1
1
1
1
1
Flu-like syndrome
3
3
1
1
0
0
Flushing
1
1
0
0
0
0
Headache
1
1
1
1
0
0
Hypoxia
0
0
0
0
1
1
Injection site reaction
12
34
1
6
0
0


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GRADE 1
GRADE 2
GRADE 3
AE
#  pts
#  events
# pts
#  events
# pts
#  events
Myalgia
2
2
1
1
0
0
Nausea
1
1
0
0
0
0
Pain
1
1
0
0
1
1
Thrombocytopenia
1
1
0
0
0
0
Pleural Effusion
0
0
1
1
1
1
Proteinuria
1
1
0
0
0
0
Pruritis
1
1
0
0
0
0
Rash
0
0
1
1
0
0
Pneumonitis
0
0
0
0
1
1
Immune Responses with GI-6207
Although this was a heavily pre-treated population of patients with advanced disease, 
there were some immunologic parameters that suggested GI-6207 induced an immune response.  
Interferon-gamma ELISPOT assays (CEA and MUC1) were performed in 9 HLA2 and HLA3 
positive patients pre - vs. post- vaccination. Antigen-specific T-cell responses were detected (a 
minimum of a 2-fold increase from baseline) in 5 out of 9 patients. One of these patients was the 
MTC who had a greater than 20-fold increases in antigen-specific T-cell responses compared to 
baseline. The number and phenotype of NK cells was determined by analysis using CD56, CD3, 
and CD16 in 13 patients. NK cells may represent increased innate activity of the immune system 
after GI-6207.  Six of 13 evaluable patients had increased, 5 had unchanged and 2 had decreased 
NK frequency. 3 out of 4 evaluable patients with stable had increased NK frequency (including 
patient with MTC).
Treg levels were determined by 7-color flow cytometry analysis using CD4, CD25, 
CD127, FoxP3, CTLA-4, CD45RA, and CD8. Effector/Treg ratios (pre - vs. post GI-6207
administration) were calculated in 16 evaluable patients. Eight of 16 evaluable patients had 
increased Effector/Treg ratio, suggesting that T-cells were more active after treatment.  MDSC 
(myeloid-derived suppressor cell) frequency (monocytic and granulocytic) were determined in 
13 patients by flow cytometry analysis using CD14, CD11b, CD15, CD33, CD13, and DR. Five 
of 13 evaluable pts had decreased MDSC levels, 6 had unchanged and 2 had increased MDSC 
levels.  These data suggest GI-6207 did not increase immune suppressive activity within treated 
patients, and some patients had relative increases in effector T-cells after treatment.
Inflammatory Reactions Seen after Treatment with GI-6207
Phase I Data Suggest GI-6207 has immunologic activity as described above.  In addition, 2
patients have had substantial inflammatory responses.  One is pictured below. 13 A second 


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12
patient in the current MTC trial has had a similar episode followed by fluctuating, but now 
declining calcitonin.
Figure 1. Inflammatory response in a patient with medullary thyroid cancer who was treated with 
vaccine. Frames A and B: Baseline computed tomography (CT) of a patient with medullary 
thyroid cancer who had a pericardial-based lesion (a, arrow) and a right-sided pleural-based 
lesion (b, arrow). Frame C: Six days after the seventh vaccine (approximately 13 weeks after 
initiating therapy), the patient developed shortness of breath and was admitted to a local hospital. 
CT showed a right-sided pleural effusion and a pericardial effusion. A biopsy evaluating 
lymphangitic spread, bronchoscopy with lavage, and empiric antibiotic therapy yielded no clear 
etiology. With no clear diagnosis, high-dose steroids were started to treat a potential immune-
related reaction. The patient’s symptoms resolved within 48 h. Frame D: CT image obtained 18 
days after the image in (C) and approximately 2 weeks after starting steroids. Notably, this 
patient was re-evaluated for yeast allergies and found to be negative, and the magnitude of 
antigen-specific T cell response to multiple tumor antigens increased 10- to 20-fold after vaccine. 
Based on the clinical course and absence of an alternative diagnosis, it is possible that this was a 
vigorous immune-mediated antitumor response. Interestingly, in image (C), the effusion was 
only on the right side (arrow), the same location of the pleural-based lesion seen in (B) 13
Rationale for Using Vaccines to Enhance Responses to PD1/PDL1 blockade
Unlike targets of other precision therapies, PDL1 expression is not a somatic mutation 
that is inherent to the cancer itself.  PDL1 expression is dynamic and likely a reaction of the 
cancer cells to immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. One can think of it as a “footprint” 
suggesting an activated T-cell response was or is there 14.  Thus PDL1/PD1 inhibitors are 
essentially enabling neutralized immune cells already in the tumor microenvironment to bypass 


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13
the tissue preserving inhibitory T-cell signaling through PD1/PDL1 and kill cancer cells.  There 
is actually substantial evidence from colon cancer, that the presence of immune cells in resected 
samples is strongly associated with clinical outcomes, demonstrating the potential clinical impact 
of immune activity against cancer cells. 15 Similar data is also emerging across many other 
tumor types. 16 Taken a step further, cancer cells that can neutralize immune cells, perhaps with 
immune checkpoint inhibitors such as PDL1 have a greater likelihood of clonal propagation 
within a patient.  
Figure 2: Effect of Vaccination on Tumor PD-L1 Expression
One study done in the LTIB (unpublished, Greiner Lab) demonstrates that vaccine can 
indeed enhance tumor expression by tumor cells.  These studies included a CEA-targeting 
vaccine and two cell line, MC38 (pictured) and Lewis Lung cancer


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14
There is also growing data suggesting the mechanism by which immune cells in the 
tumor microenvironment may lead to increased PDL1 expression on tumor cells.  Multiple 
studies have implicated INF-J as one mediator PDL1 expression by tumor cells.  INF-J is a 
cytokine produced by activated T-cells, and thus biologically it would seem that it is a rational 
mechanistic trigger for PDL1 expression.  Preclinical and clinical data supports this hypothesis.
17,18 Preclinical studies evaluating established B16 tumors in C57BL/6, Balb/c mice
demonstrated that vaccine combined with anti-PDL1 therapy had the greatest impact on tumor 
growth compared to vaccine or controls alone.  Interestingly, that benefit was negated when an 
antibody binding to INF-Jwas introduce into the model, demonstrating its important role in the 
synergy of the two therapies.  Also, interesting findings were noted when human tumors were 
evaluated for INF-JTissue in melanoma patients that had increased genetic expression of genes 
consistent with INF-J production were associated with the greatest responses to anti-PD1 
therapy.
Based on this perspective, combining or sequencing vaccines with anti-PDL1/PD1 
therapies could broaden the clinical benefit to include a greater proportion of patients that are 
currently unable to benefit from immune checkpoint inhibition. Increasing peripheral T-cell 
activation with vaccines, thereby enabling these cells to then migrate to the tumor 
microenvironment may be one strategy to improve response rates to anti-PDL1/PD1 therapies.  
Figure 3.  Vaccines may prime the tumor microenvironment to increase response rate to 
anti-PD1 inhibitors.
Case Report: Patient who received Vaccine and then a PD1/PDL1 Checkpoint Inhibitor


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15
Figure 4
This case report in Figure 4 is (unpublished) data from a male with MTC who was 
surveilled for 6 months prior to getting 4 months of vaccine.  During surveillance he had 
doubling time (one method to measure tumor growth rate) of approximately 135 days.  During 
the vaccine period his doubling time improved/was prolonged to approximately 530 days.  He 
then came off vaccine for elective surgery and per protocol had to discontinue vaccine.  When 
seen in follow up, his calcitonin was rising again after surgery.  At that point, approximately 3 
months after surgery, he enrolled on a PDL1 inhibitor with a calcitonin of 9765 pg/ml.  
(Calcitonin stabilization after surgery may vary based on disease burden, but within 1 month it 
would be expected to achieve maximum decline. 19 He then had 5 consecutive declines in his 
calcitonin to 5732 pg/ml while on the immune checkpoint inhibitor, a greater than 40% decline.  
At this time, he had an immune related adverse event (asymptomatic rise in lab values) that 
required discontinuation of therapy.  With extensive toxicity data from pembrolizumab, in the 
proposed phase II trial PD1/PDL1 inhibition would not be discontinued for asymptomatic lab 
values such as the case in this patient who was on a phase I trial which has stricter guidelines.
Although this patient’s peripheral immune response has not been evaluated yet, his 
lymph node with tumor resected at surgery was evaluated for PDL1 expression.  The staining of 
this sample was robustly positive for PDL1 expression.  (No baseline sample was available for 
evaluation given that patient was diagnosed over 15 years ago.)


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16
Figure 5. Robustly positive PDL1 staining after surgical resection of a neck lymph node after 
vaccine (higher power on the right.)
These data suggest that a patient with a rapidly rising calcitonin, had his calcitonin 
doubling time slowed (improved) while on vaccine. The vaccine was discontinued per protocol 
as the patient elected to have surgical resection, but after a transient decline in calcitonin, his 
values began to rise again. At this point he enrolled on a clinical trial of an immune checkpoint 
inhibitor targeting the PD1/PDL1 axis and had a rapid, substantial (>40%) decline in his 
calcitonin.  While on the phase I trial of the checkpoint inhibitor, the patient had asymptomatic 
changes in lab values, which led to protocol mandated treatment discontinuation.  This decline in 
terms of percentage and consecutive values demonstrating a confirmed decline has not been seen 
in any of the 30 patients with MTC who were are currently following for up to 30 months.  
Evaluation of resected tumor indicates strong PDL1 expression.  
Pembrolizumab
The importance of intact immune surveillance in controlling outgrowth of neoplastic 
transformation has been known for decades.  Accumulating evidence shows a correlation 
between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in cancer tissue and favorable prognosis in 
various malignancies.  In particular, the presence of CD8+ T-cells and the ratio of CD8+ effector 
T-cells / FoxP3+ regulatory T-cells seems to correlate with improved prognosis and long-term 
survival in many solid tumors.
The PD-1 receptor-ligand interaction is a major pathway hijacked by tumors to suppress immune 
control.  The normal function of PD-1, expressed on the cell surface of activated T-cells under 
healthy conditions, is to down-modulate unwanted or excessive immune responses, including 
autoimmune reactions.  PD-1 (encoded by the gene Pdcd1) is an Ig superfamily member related 
to CD28 and CTLA-4 which has been shown to negatively regulate antigen receptor signaling 
upon engagement of its ligands (PD-L1 and/or PD-L2).  The structure of murine PD-1 has been 
resolved.  PD-1 and family members are type I transmembrane glycoproteins containing an Ig 
Variable-type (V-type) domain responsible for ligand binding and a cytoplasmic tail which is 
responsible for the binding of signaling molecules.  The cytoplasmic tail of PD-1 contains 2 
tyrosine-based signaling motifs, an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif (ITIM) and 
an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based switch motif (ITSM).  Following T-cell stimulation, PD-1
recruits the tyrosine phosphatases SHP-1 and SHP-2 to the ITSM motif within its cytoplasmic 
WDLOOHDGLQJWRWKHGHSKRVSKRU\ODWLRQRIHIIHFWRUPROHFXOHVVXFKDV&'ȗ3.&șand ZAP70 


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17
which are involved in the CD3 T-cell signaling cascade.  The mechanism by which PD-1 down 
modulates T-cell responses is similar to, but distinct from that of CTLA-4 as both molecules 
regulate an overlapping set of signaling proteins.  PD-1 was shown to be expressed on activated 
lymphocytes including peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, B-cells, T regs and Natural Killer 
cells.  Expression has also been shown during thymic development on CD4-CD8- (double 
negative) T-cells as well as subsets of macrophages and dendritic cells.  The ligands for PD-1
(PD-L1 and PD-L2) are constitutively expressed or can be induced in a variety of cell types, 
including non-hematopoietic tissues as well as in various tumors.  Both ligands are type I 
transmembrane receptors containing both IgV- and IgC-like domains in the extracellular region 
and contain short cytoplasmic regions with no known signaling motifs.  Binding of either PD-1
ligand to PD-1 inhibits T-cell activation triggered through the T-cell receptor.  PD-L1 is 
expressed at low levels on various non-hematopoietic tissues, most notably on vascular 
endothelium, whereas PD-L2 protein is only detectably expressed on antigen-presenting cells 
found in lymphoid tissue or chronic inflammatory environments.  PD-L2 is thought to control 
immune T-cell activation in lymphoid organs, whereas PD-L1 serves to dampen unwarranted T-
cell function in peripheral tissues.  Although healthy organs express little (if any) PD-L1, a 
variety of cancers were demonstrated to express abundant levels of this T-cell inhibitor.  PD-1
has been suggested to regulate tumor-specific T-cell expansion in subjects with melanoma 
(MEL).  This suggests that the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway plays a critical role in tumor immune 
evasion and should be considered as an attractive target for therapeutic intervention.
Pembrolizumab is a potent and highly selective humanized monoclonal antibody (mAb) of the 
IgG4/kappa isotype designed to directly block the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-
L1 and PD-L2.  PembrolizumabTM (pembrolizumab) has recently been approved in the United 
Stated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma and disease 
progression following ipilumumab and, if BRAF V600 mutation positive, a BRAF inhibitor.
1.2.1
Rationale for Dose Selection/Regimen/Modification
An open-label Phase I trial (Protocol 001) is being conducted to evaluate the safety and clinical 
activity of single agent pembrolizumab (MK-3475).  The dose escalation portion of this trial 
evaluated three dose levels, 1 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, and 10 mg/kg, administered every 2 weeks 
(Q2W) in subjects with advanced solid tumors.  All three dose levels were well tolerated and no 
dose-limiting toxicities were observed.  This first in human study of pembrolizumab (MK-3475)
showed evidence of target engagement and objective evidence of tumor size reduction at all dose 
levels (1 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg Q2W).  No MTD has been identified to date.  10.0 
mg/kg Q2W, the highest dose tested in PN001, will be the dose and schedule utilized in Cohorts 
A, B, C and D of this protocol to test for initial tumor activity.  Recent data from other clinical 
studies within the pembrolizumab (MK-3475) program has shown that a lower dose of 
pembrolizumab (MK-3475) and a less frequent schedule may be sufficient for target engagement 
and clinical activity.
PK data analysis of pembrolizumab (MK-3475) administered Q2W and Q3W showed slow 
systemic clearance, limited volume of distribution, and a long half-life (refer to IB).  


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18
Pharmacodynamic data (IL-2 release assay) suggested that peripheral target engagement is 
durable (>21 days).  This early PK and pharmacodynamic data provides scientific rationale for 
testing a Q2W and Q3W dosing schedule.  
A population pharmacokinetic analysis has been performed using serum concentration time data 
from 476 patients. Within the resulting population PK model, clearance and volume parameters 
of pembrolizumab (MK-3475) were found to be dependent on body weight. The relationship 
between clearance and body weight, with an allometric exponent of 0.59, is within the range 
observed for other antibodies and would support both body weight normalized dosing or a fixed 
dose across all body weights.  Pembrolizumab (MK-3475) has been found to have a wide 
therapeutic range based on the melanoma indication.  The differences in exposure for a 200 mg 
fixed dose regimen relative to a 2 mg/kg Q3W body weight based regimen are anticipated to 
remain well within the established exposure margins of 0.5 – 5.0 for pembrolizumab (MK-3475)
in the melanoma indication. The exposure margins are based on the notion of similar efficacy 
and safety in melanoma at 10 mg/kg Q3W vs. the proposed dose regimen of 2 mg/kg Q3W (i.e. 
5-fold higher dose and exposure). The population PK evaluation revealed that there was no 
significant impact of tumor burden on exposure. In addition, exposure was similar between the 
NSCLC and melanoma indications. Therefore, there are no anticipated changes in exposure 
between different indication settings.
The rationale for further exploration of 2 mg/kg and comparable doses of pembrolizumab in 
solid tumors is based on: 1) similar efficacy and safety of pembrolizumab when dosed at either 2 
mg/kg or 10 mg/kg Q3W in melanoma patients20 2) the flat exposure-response relationships of 
pembrolizumab for both efficacy and safety in the dose ranges of 2 mg/kg Q3W to 10 mg/kg 
Q3W, 3) the lack of effect of tumor burden or indication on distribution behavior of 
pembrolizumab (as assessed by the population PK model) and 4) the assumption that the 
dynamics of pembrolizumab target engagement will not vary meaningfully with tumor type.
The choice of the 200 mg Q3W as an appropriate dose for the switch to fixed dosing is based on 
simulations performed using the population PK model of pembrolizumab showing that the fixed 
dose of 200 mg every 3 weeks will provide exposures that 1) are optimally consistent with those 
obtained with the 2 mg/kg dose every 3 weeks, 2) will maintain individual patient exposures in 
the exposure range established in melanoma as associated with maximal efficacy response and 3) 
will maintain individual patients exposure in the exposure range established in melanoma that 
are well tolerated and safe. 
A fixed dose regimen will simplify the dosing regimen to be more convenient for physicians and 
to reduce potential for dosing errors.  A fixed dosing scheme will also reduce complexity in the 
logistical chain at treatment facilities and reduce wastage.


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19
2
ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT AND ENROLLMENT
2.1
Eligibility Criteria
2.1.1
Inclusion Criteria
2.1.1.1
Diagnosis:  Patients must have histologically confirmed medullary thyroid cancer 
by the Laboratory of Pathology or a pathology report and history consistent with 
medullary thyroid cancer.  It is not uncommon for a secondary, minor pathologic 
focus of another form of thyroid cancer to be coincidentally found in 15-20% of 
patients with medullary thyroid cancer21.  In such cases, eligibility is based on the 
discretion of the investigator.   
2.1.1.2
Patients must have evidence of metastatic medullary thyroid cancer including 
disease that is evaluable on bone, CT scan or MRI. (Patients who are surgical 
candidates and potentially rendered disease free with surgical resection are not 
eligible.) 
2.1.1.3
Patients must have elevated calcitonin levels greater than 40 pg/mL 
2.1.1.4
Patients must have minimal or no disease related-symptoms (Minimal symptoms 
will include those that do not affect activities of daily living or pain that does not 
require regularly scheduled narcotics.)
2.1.1.5
Patients must have evaluable disease on imaging
2.1.1.6
No history of seizures, encephalitis, or multiple sclerosis.
2.1.1.7
$JH\HDUV
2.1.1.8
ECOG performance status of 0-1 at study entry (.DUQRIVN\ (See Appendix 
A).
2.1.1.9
Female subject of childbearing potential should have a negative urine or serum 
pregnancy within 72 hours prior to receiving the first dose of study medication.  If 
the urine test is positive or cannot be confirmed as negative, a serum pregnancy 
test will be required.  
2.1.1.10 Female subjects of childbearing potential must be willing to use an adequate method of 
contraception as outlined in Section 10.6, Contraception, for the course of the study 
through 120 days after the last dose of study medication.
Note: Abstinence is acceptable if this is the usual lifestyle and preferred contraception 
for the subject
2.1.1.11 Male subjects of childbearing potential must agree to use an adequate method of 
contraception as outlined in Section 10.6, Contraception, starting with the first 
dose of study therapy through 120 days after the last dose of study therapy.
Note: Abstinence is acceptable if this is the usual lifestyle and preferred contraception 
for the subject
2.1.1.12 Willing to travel to the NIH for follow-up visits
2.1.1.13 Able to understand and sign informed consent.
2.1.1.14 Demonstrate adequate organ function as defined in Table 2, all screening labs should be 
performed within 10 days of treatment initiation.  


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20
Table 2 Adequate Organ Function Laboratory Values
System
Laboratory Value
Hematological
Absolute neutrophil count (ANC)
000 /mcL
Platelets
PF/
Hemoglobin
JG/RUPPRO/without transfusion or EPO 
dependency (within 7 days of assessment)
Renal
Serum creatinine OR
Measured or calculateda creatinine 
clearance
(GFR can also be used in place of 
creatinine or CrCl)
;XSSHUOLPLWRIQRUPDO8/1OR
P/PLQIRUVXEMHFWZLWKFUHDWLQLQHOHYHOV!;
institutional ULN
Hepatic
Serum total bilirubin
;8/1OR
'LUHFWELOLUXELQ8/1IRUVXEMHFWVZLWKWRWDOELOLUXELQ
levels > 1.5 ULN
AST (SGOT) and ALT (SGPT)
;8/1OR
5 X ULN for subjects with liver metastases
Albumin
>2.5 mg/dL
Coagulation
International Normalized Ratio (INR) 
or Prothrombin Time (PT)
Activated Partial Thromboplastin 
Time (aPTT)
;8/1XQOHVVVXEMHFWLVUHFHLYing anticoagulant 
therapy
as long as PT or PTT is within therapeutic range of 
intended use of anticoagulants
;8/1XQOHVVVXEMHFWLVUHFHLYLQJDQWLFRDJXODQW
therapy
as long as PT or PTT is within therapeutic range of 
intended use of anticoagulants
aCreatinine clearance should be calculated per Cockcroft-Gault equation.
2.1.2
Exclusion Criteria
2.1.2.1
Is currently participating and receiving study therapy or has participated in a study 
of an investigational agent and received study therapy or used an investigational 
device within 4 weeks of the first dose of treatment.
2.1.2.2
Has a diagnosis of immunodeficiency or is receiving systemic steroid therapy or 
any other form of immunosuppressive therapy within 7 days prior to the first dose 
of trial treatment.
2.1.2.3
Has a known history of active TB   (Bacillus Tuberculosis)


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21
2.1.2.4
Hypersensitivity to pembrolizumab or any of its excipients.
2.1.2.5
Has had a prior anti-cancer monoclonal antibody (mAb) within 4 weeks prior to 
VWXG\'D\RUZKRKDVQRWUHFRYHUHGLH*UDGHRUDWEDVHOLne) from adverse 
events due to agents administered more than 4 weeks earlier.  
2.1.2.6
Has had prior targeted small molecule therapy, or radiation therapy within 2 
weeks prior to study Day 1 or who has not reFRYHUHGLH*UDGHRUDW
baseline) from adverse events due to a previously administered agent.
1RWH6XEMHFWVZLWK*UDGHQHXURSDWK\DUHDQH[FHSWLRQWRWKLVFULWHULRQDQGPD\
qualify for the study.
Note:  If subject received major surgery, they must have recovered adequately from 
the toxicity and/or complications from the intervention prior to starting therapy.  
2.1.2.7
Has active autoimmune disease that has required systemic treatment in the past 2 
years (i.e. with use of disease modifying agents, corticosteroids or 
immunosuppressive drugs). Replacement therapy (e.g., thyroxine, insulin, or 
physiologic corticosteroid replacement therapy for adrenal or pituitary 
insufficiency, etc.) is not considered a form of systemic treatment.
2.1.2.8
Has known active central nervous system (CNS) metastases and/or carcinomatous 
meningitis.  Subjects with previously treated brain metastases may participate 
provided they are stable for 6 months (without evidence of progression by 
imaging for at least four weeks prior to the first dose of trial treatment and any 
neurologic symptoms have returned to baseline), have no evidence of new or 
enlarging brain metastases, and are not using steroids for at least 7 days prior to 
trial treatment.  This exception does not include carcinomatous meningitis which 
is excluded regardless of clinical stability.  
2.1.2.9
Has history of (non-infectious) pneumonitis that required steroids, evidence of 
interstitial lung disease or active, non-infectious pneumonitis..
2.1.2.10 Has an active infection requiring systemic therapy.
2.1.2.11 Has a history or current evidence of any condition, therapy, or laboratory 
abnormality that might confound the results of the trial, interfere with the 
subject’s participation for the full duration of the trial, or is not in the best interest 
of the subject to participate, in the opinion of the treating investigator.  
2.1.2.12 Has known psychiatric or substance abuse disorders that would interfere with 
cooperation with the requirements of the trial.
2.1.2.13 Is pregnant or breastfeeding, or expecting to conceive or father children within the 
projected duration of the trial, starting with the pre-screening or screening visit 
through 120 days after the last dose of trial treatment.
2.1.2.14 Has received prior therapy with an anti-PD-1, anti-PD-L1, or anti-PD-L2 agent.
2.1.2.15 Has Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) (HIV 1/2 antibodies).
2.1.2.16 Has active Hepatitis B (e.g., HBsAg reactive) or Hepatitis C (e.g., HCV RNA 
[qualitative] is detected).
2.1.2.17 Has received a live vaccine within 30 days of planned start of study therapy


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2.1.2.18 Concurrent use of systemic steroids, except for physiologic doses of systemic 
steroid replacement or local (topical, nasal, eye drops or inhaled) steroid use. 
Limited doses of systemic steroids (e.g., in patients with exacerbations of reactive 
airway disease or to prevent IV contrast allergic reaction or anaphylaxis in 
patients who have known contrast allergies) are allowed.
2.1.2.19 Serious inter-current medical illness which would interfere with the ability of the 
patient to carry out the treatment program. 
2.1.2.20 Patients with second malignancy within 3 years of enrollment; Patients curatively 
treated non-melanoma skin cancers or carcinoma in situ of the bladder, are not 
excluded.  Patients with MEN2 and a history of pheochromocytoma will also not 
be excluded.  In addition patients with prostate cancer who do not require 
systemic therapy will not be excluded.  (A secondary, minor pathologic focus of 
another form of thyroid cancer may be coincidentally found in 15-20% of patients 
with medullary thyroid cancer.  In such cases, eligibility is based on the discretion 
of the investigator.)
2.1.2.21 Patients with previous history of vandetanib or cabozantinib treatment for more
than 28 days of treatment (patients have discontinued treatment for 28 days before 
enrolling).
2.1.3
Recruitment Strategies
We have established national referral patterns from our previous study with a yeast CEA vaccine 
– 13-C-0095.  Furthermore, many patients from the study who are still being seen at the NCI will 
return and enroll on this trial.
2.2
Registration Procedures
Registration will be a two-part process as patients are screened on this protocol.  Authorized staff 
must register an eligible candidate with NCI Central Registration Office (CRO) within 24 hours 
of signing consent. To initially register a subject after the participant has signed the consent, 
complete the top portion of the registration Eligibility Checklist from the website 
(http://home.ccr.cancer.gov/intra/eligibility/welcome.htm) indicating that the patient is being 
registered for screening and send via encrypted email to: NCI Central Registration Office 
ncicentralregistration-l@mail.nih.gov.  Once eligibility is confirmed after completion of 
screening studies, complete the remainder of the form which is the eligibility checklist, 
indicating that the patient is being registered for treatment and email the completed registration 
checklist to the CRO at NCI Central Registration Office ncicentralregistration-l@mail.nih.gov.
After confirmation of eligibility at Central Registration Office, CRO staff will call pharmacy to 
advise them of the acceptance of the patient on the protocol prior to the release of any 
investigational agents.  Verification of Registration will be forwarded electronically via e-mail to 
the research team. A recorder is available during non-working hours. 
Subjects that do not meet screening criteria should be removed from the study following the 
procedure in section 3.5.3.


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2.3
Screening Evaluation
2.3.1
The following tests may be obtained any time prior to initiation of study therapy:
x
Pathological confirmation of diagnosis in the Laboratory of Pathology at the NIH 
Clinical Center prior to starting this study when possible. Pathology reports from 
other hospitals and a history consistent with medullary thyroid cancer will also be 
sufficient for documentation of pathological confirmation.
2.3.2
The following parameters will be obtained within 8 weeks prior to initiation of study 
therapy:
x
HIV (anti HIV 1,2 antibody)
x
Hepatitis B (HBcAb IgM) and C (HCV antibody test)
x
Tc-99 whole body scintigraphy (bone scan)
x
CT of neck/chest/abdomen/pelvis (MRI may be substituted at investigator discretion)
x
Electrocardiogram (EKG)
2.3.3
The following parameters will be obtained within 10 days prior to initiation of study 
therapy:
2.3.3.1
Clinical Evaluation
x
History and physical examination including vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, 
respiratory rate, oxygen saturation
x
ECOG performance status (see Appendix A)
2.3.3.2
Laboratory studies
x
Complete blood count plus differential and platelet count
x
Chemistries (sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, creatinine, glucose, BUN, albumin, 
calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, alk phos, ALT, AST, total bilirubin, direct 
bilirubin, LD, total protein, total CK and uric acid)  
x
PT, PTT
x
Urinalysis (may be omitted if patient is incontinent and cannot provide a urine 
sample)
x
Serum calcitonin and CEA
x
TSH
x
Urine Beta-HCG for women of child-bearing age (repeated within 48 hours prior to 
treatment).  (Serum Beta-HCG may be done if urine is positive or inconclusive). 


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24
Females of childbearing potential (FCBP): A female of childbearing potential is a 
sexually mature woman who:
a) Has not undergone a hysterectomy or bilateral oophorectomy
b) Has not been naturally postmenopausal for at least 24 consecutive months (i.e. 
has had menses at any time in the preceding 24 consecutive months).
c) Has a congenital or acquired condition that prevents childbearing
In addition, patients, both male and female, should be willing to practice effective birth control 
during the study and for four months following the last study treatment, unless they have had a 
prior hysterectomy, bilateral oophorectomy, congenital conditions associated with infertility or 
azoospermia.
2.4
Treatment Assignment and Randomization/Stratification Procedures: 
Cohorts
Number
Name
Description
1
First cohort
Patients with prior vaccine therapy
2
Second cohort
Patients without prior vaccine therapy
Arms
Number
Name
Description
1
Pembrolizumab
Pembrolizumab treatment for 2 years at Q3W
Randomization and Arm Assignment
Patients will be enrolled to Cohort 1 (previous vaccine) or Cohort 2 (no previous vaccine) based 
on their treatment history.  This will be established at each patients’ screening visit and noted on 
the eligibility criteria. Patients in cohort 1 and cohort 2 will be directly assigned to Arm 1.
2.5
Baseline Evaluation
Screening evaluations performed within 8 weeks prior and within 10 days prior to treatment 
initiation will be used as baseline.


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3
STUDY IMPLEMENTATION
3.1
Study Design
This will be an open label study in which all patients receive pembrolizumab.  Patients will be 
assigned to specific cohorts based on their previous treatment with an immune stimulating 
therapeutic cancer vaccine.
Treatment Duration with Pembrolizumab: 2 years (at 3 week intervals)
3.2
Trial Treatments
The treatment to be used in this trial is outlined below in Table 3
Table 3 Trial Treatment
Drug
Dose/Potency
Dose 
Frequency
Route of 
Administration
Regimen/Treatment 
Period
Use
Pembrolizumab
200 mg 
Q3W
IV infusion
Day 1 of each 3 week 
cycle
Experimental
Treatment Duration with Pembrolizumab: 2 years (3 week intervals)
Trial treatment should begin on the day of enrollment or as close as possible to that date.
3.3
Drug Administration
Trial treatment should be administered on Day 1 of each cycle after all procedures/assessments 
have been completed as detailed on the Study Calendar (Section 3.4). Trial treatment may be 
administered up to 7 days before or after the scheduled Day 1 of each cycle due to administrative 
reasons.
All trial treatments will be administered on an outpatient basis.
Pembrolizumab 200 mg will be administered as a 30 minute IV infusion every 3 weeks. Every 
effort should be made to target infusion timing to be as close to 30 minutes as possible.  


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26
However, a window of -5 minutes and +10 minutes is permitted (i.e., infusion time is 30 
minutes: -5 min/+10 min). Premedication for patients who experience an infusion reaction
should be administered 60 minutes (+/- 30 minutes) prior to the infusion. 
The Pharmacy Manual contains specific instructions for the preparation of the pembrolizumab 
infusion fluid and administration of infusion solution. Pembrolizumab is administered through a 
0.2 to 5 micron sterile, nonpyrogenic, low-protein binding inline or add-on filter. Do not infuse 
other mediations through the same infusion line.
3.3.1
Dose Modifications
Adverse events (both non-serious and serious) associated with pembrolizumab exposure may 
represent an immunologic etiology.  These adverse events may occur shortly after the first dose 
or several months after the last dose of treatment. Pembrolizumab must be withheld for drug-
related toxicities and severe or life-threatening AEs as per Table 4 below. See Section 4 for
supportive care guidelines, including use of corticosteroids.
Table 4. Dose Modification Guidelines for Drug-Related Adverse Events
Toxicity
Hold 
Treatment 
For Grade
Timing for Restarting 
Treatment
Treatment Discontinuation
Diarrhea/Colitis
2-3
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1
Toxicity does not resolve within 12 weeks of last 
dose or inability to reduce corticosteroid to 10 
mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day 
within 12 weeks
4
Permanently discontinue
Permanently discontinue
AST, ALT, or 
Increased 
Bilirubin
2
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1
Toxicity does not resolve within 12 weeks of last 
dose
3-4
Permanently discontinue
(see exception below)a
Permanently discontinue
Type 1 diabetes 
mellitus (if new 
onset) or 
Hyperglycemia
T1DM or 
3-4
Hold pembrolizumab for new 
onset Type 1 diabetes mellitus 
or Grade 3-4 hyperglycemia 
associated with evidence of 
beta cell failure
Resume pembrolizumab when patients are 
clinically and metabolically stable
Hypophysitis
2-4
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1. Therapy with 
pembrolizumab can be 
continued while endocrine 
replacement therapy is 
instituted
Toxicity does not resolve within 12 weeks of last 
dose or inability to reduce corticosteroid to 10 
mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day 
within 12 weeks


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Toxicity
Hold 
Treatment 
For Grade
Timing for Restarting 
Treatment
Treatment Discontinuation
Hyperthyroidism 
3
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1
Toxicity does not resolve within 12 weeks of last 
dose or inability to reduce corticosteroid to 10 
mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day 
within 12 weeks
4
Permanently discontinue
Permanently discontinue
Hypothyroidism
Therapy with pembrolizumab 
can be continued while 
thyroid replacement therapy is 
instituted
Therapy with pembrolizumab can be continued 
while thyroid replacement therapy is instituted
Infusion 
Reaction
2b
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1
Permanently discontinue if toxicity develops 
despite adequate premedication 
3-4
Permanently discontinue
Permanently discontinue
Pneumonitis
2
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1
Toxicity does not resolve within 12 weeks of last 
dose or inability to reduce corticosteroid to 10 
mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day 
within 12 weeks
3-4
Permanently discontinue
Permanently discontinue
Renal Failure or 
Nephritis
2
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1
Toxicity does not resolve within 12 weeks of last 
dose or inability to reduce corticosteroid to 10 
mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day 
within 12 weeks
3-4
Permanently discontinue
Permanently discontinue
All Other Drug-
Related 
Toxicityc
3 or Severe
Toxicity resolves to Grade 0-
1
Toxicity does not resolve within 12 weeks of last 
dose or inability to reduce corticosteroid to 10 
mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day 
within 12 weeks
4
Permanently discontinue
Permanently discontinue
Note: Permanently discontinue for any severe or Grade 3 drug-related AE that recurs or any life-threatening 
event.
a For patients with liver metastasis who begin treatment with Grade 2 AST or ALT, if AST or ALT increases by 
greater than or equal to 50% relative to baseline and lasts for at least 1 week then patients should be discontinued.
b If symptoms resolve within one hour of stopping drug infusion, the infusion may be restarted at 50% of the original 
infusion rate   (e.g., from 100 mL/hr to 50 mL/hr).  Otherwise dosing will be held until symptoms resolve and the 
subject should be premedicated for the next scheduled dose; Refer to Table 5 – Infusion Reaction Treatment 
Guidelines for further management details.
c Patients with intolerable or persistent Grade 2 drug-related AE may hold study medication at physician discretion.  
Permanently discontinue study drug for persistent Grade 2 adverse reactions for which treatment with study drug 
has been held, that do not recover to Grade 0-1 within 12 weeks of the last dose.
Dosing interruptions are permitted in the case of medical / surgical events or logistical reasons 
not related to study therapy (e.g., elective surgery, unrelated medical events, patient vacation, 
and/or holidays). Subjects should be placed back on study therapy within 6 weeks of the 


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scheduled interruption. The reason for interruption should be documented in the patient's study 
record.
3.3.2
Dosing Delay
Dosing delay is permitted by 7 days before or after scheduled treatment for logistical purposes 
(given travel requirements of our patients).  If there are changes in the schedule, the subsequent 
dose may not be given less than 18 days later.


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3.4
Study Calendar
Procedure
Screening/
Baseline5
Treatment Cycles (21 days +/- 7 days)1
Cycle 9 
and 
beyond
Post 
Treatment6
C1
D1
C2
D1
C3
D1
C4
D1
C5
D1
C6
D1
C7
D1
C8
D1
History and PE
X2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Vital signs
X2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Performance 
Score
X2
Height/Weight
X3
HIV, Hep B, C
X
Pregnancy Test 
(Urine or Serum 
beta-HCG)
X2
UA4
X2
PT/INR and 
PTT
X2
Chemistries7
X2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CBC
X2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TSH
X2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
T/B/NK subsets
X2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tumor Markers:
Calcitonin and 
CEA
X2
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Correlative 
Research 
Studies 
(research bloods 
see Appendix 
B)
X
continue at 3 month intervals
X8
Radiological 
Assessments 
(MRI or CT 
Neck, 
Ch/Abd/Pelvis, 
Bone Scan) 3
X
continue at 3 month intervals
EKG 3
X
continue at 3 month intervals
X
Biopsy
(optional)8
Adverse Events
X
Concomitant 
Medications
X
1 If patient is delayed, subsequent infusion must be at least 18 days later


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2 Must be done within 10 days prior to initiation of study therapy
3 Must be done within 8 weeks prior to initiation of study therapy, and then will be done every 3 months while 
patients remain on study
4 May be omitted if patient is incontinent and cannot provide a urine sample
5 Baseline/Screening requirements may also be used for Day 1 requirements if logistically necessary 
6 Post-Therapy Assessment done 3 weeks after last treatment when logistically feasible (with a possible extension to 
4 weeks if logistically necessary). Patients will be offered enrollment in the 04-C-0274 “Follow-Up Study of 
Subjects Previously Enrolled in Immunotherapy Studies Utilizing Gene Transfer or other Immunotherapeutic 
Agents” once off study.
7 Chemistries: sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, creatinine, glucose, BUN, albumin, calcium, magnesium, 
phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, ALT, AST, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, LD, total protein, total CK, uric acid
8 When logistically feasible, pre-treatment and post-treatment samples may be obtained from consenting patients.


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3.5
Criteria for Removal from Protocol Therapy and Off Study Criteria
Prior to documenting removal from study, effort must be made to have all subjects complete a 
safety visit approximately 3-4 weeks following the last dose of study therapy.
3.5.1
Criteria for removal from protocol therapy
x
Completion of protocol therapy
x
Clinical progression of disease based on increased symptoms or immune related response 
criteria (irRC) to also be implemented for disease progression as described in 6.3.2.
x
Grade 3 or greater toxicity attributed to treatment that does not resolve to grade 1 within 
21 days from time of scheduled treatment.
x
Grade 3 or greater autoimmune disease that threatens vital organs.
x
Intercurrent illness or medical circumstances. If at any time the constraints of this 
protocol are detrimental to the patient’s health, the patient may be removed from protocol 
therapy and reasons for withdrawal will be documented.
x
Subject decides to withdraw from the study (In this event, the reasons for withdrawal will
be documented)
x
Investigator discretion
x
Positive pregnancy test
3.5.2
Off-Study Criteria
Patients will be removed from the study for the following:
x
Subjects proceeds to alternative treatments
x
Death
x
Patient requests to be taken off study. Reasons for withdrawal will be documented. 
x
Noncompliance with protocol guidelines (patient removed at discretion of Principal 
Investigator).
x
Investigator decides to end the study
x
Screen failure
Patients will be offered enrollment in the 04-C-0274 “Follow-Up Study of Subjects Previously 
Enrolled in Immunotherapy Studies Utilizing Gene Transfer or other Immunotherapeutic Agents”
once off study.
3.5.3
Off Protocol Therapy and Off-Study Procedure
Authorized staff must notify Central Registration Office (CRO) when a subject is taken off 
protocol therapy and when a subject is taken off-study. A Participant Status Updates Form from 


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the web site (http://home.ccr.cancer.gov/intra/eligibility/welcome.htm) main page must be 
completed and sent via encrypted email to: NCI Central Registration Office 
ncicentralregistration-l@mail.nih.gov.
4
CONCOMITANT MEDICATIONS/MEASURES
Medications or vaccinations specifically prohibited in the exclusion criteria are not allowed 
during the ongoing trial.  If there is a clinical indication for one of these or other medications or 
vaccinations specifically prohibited during the trial, discontinuation from trial therapy or 
vaccination may be required.  The investigator may discuss any questions regarding this with the 
Merck Clinical team.  The final decision on any supportive therapy or vaccination rests with the 
investigator and/or the subject's primary physician. 
4.1.1
Acceptable Concomitant Medications
All treatments that the investigator considers necessary for a subject’s welfare may be 
administered at the discretion of the investigator in keeping with the community standards of 
medical care.  All concomitant medication will be recorded on the case report form (CRF) 
including all prescription, over-the-counter (OTC), herbal supplements, and IV medications and 
fluids.  If changes occur during the trial period, documentation of drug dosage, frequency, route, 
and date may also be included on the CRF.
All concomitant medications received within 28 days before the first dose of trial treatment and 
30 days after the last dose of trial treatment should be recorded.  Concomitant medications 
administered after 30 days after the last dose of trial treatment should be recorded for SAEs a as 
defined in Section 7.1.5.
4.1.2
Prohibited Concomitant Medications
Subjects are prohibited from receiving the following therapies during the Screening and 
Treatment Phase (including retreatment for post-complete response relapse) of this trial:
x
Antineoplastic systemic chemotherapy or biological therapy 
x
Immunotherapy not specified in this protocol
x
Chemotherapy not specified in this protocol
x
Investigational agents other than pembrolizumab
x
Radiation therapy
o
Note:  Radiation therapy to a symptomatic solitary lesion or to the brain may be 
allowed at the investigator’s discretion.
x
Live vaccines within 30 days prior to the first dose of trial treatment and while 
participating in the trial. Examples of live vaccines include, but are not limited to, the 
following: measles, mumps, rubella, varicella/zoster, yellow fever, rabies, BCG, and 
typhoid vaccine. 


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x
Systemic glucocorticoids for any purpose other than to modulate symptoms from an 
event of clinical interest of suspected immunologic etiology.  The use of physiologic 
doses of corticosteroids may be approved after consultation with the Sponsor.
The Exclusion Criteria describes other medications which are prohibited in this trial.
There are no prohibited therapies during the Post-Treatment Follow-up Phase.
4.1.3
Supportive Care Guidelines
Subjects should receive appropriate supportive care measures as deemed necessary by the 
treating investigator.  Suggested supportive care measures for the management of adverse events 
with potential immunologic etiology are outlined below. Where appropriate, these guidelines 
include the use of oral or intravenous treatment with corticosteroids as well as additional anti-
inflammatory agents if symptoms do not improve with administration of corticosteroids.  Note 
that several courses of steroid tapering may be necessary as symptoms may worsen when the 
steroid dose is decreased. For each disorder, attempts should be made to rule out other causes 
such as metastatic disease or bacterial or viral infection, which might require additional 
supportive care. The treatment guidelines are intended to be applied when the investigator
determines the events to be related to pembrolizumab. 
Note: if after the evaluation the event is determined not to be related, the investigator does not 
need to follow the treatment guidance (as outlined below). Refer to Section 3.3.1 for dose 
modification. 
It may be necessary to perform conditional procedures such as bronchoscopy, endoscopy, or skin 
photography as part of evaluation of the event. 
x
Pneumonitis:
o
For Grade 2 events, treat with systemic corticosteroids. When symptoms 
improve to Grade 1 or less, steroid taper should be started and continued over no 
less than 4 weeks.
o
For Grade 3-4 events, immediately treat with intravenous steroids. Administer 
additional anti-inflammatory measures, as needed.
o
Add prophylactic antibiotics for opportunistic infections in the case of prolonged 
steroid administration.
x
Diarrhea/Colitis:
Subjects should be carefully monitored for signs and symptoms of enterocolitis (such as 
diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood or mucus in stool, with or without fever) and of bowel 
perforation (such as peritoneal signs and ileus).  
o
All subjects who experience diarrhea/colitis should be advised to drink liberal 
quantities of clear fluids.  If sufficient oral fluid intake is not feasible, fluid and 
electrolytes should be substituted via IV infusion. For Grade 2 or higher diarrhea, 
consider GI consultation and endoscopy to confirm or rule out colitis.
o
For Grade 2 diarrhea/colitis, administer oral corticosteroids 


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o
For Grade 3 or 4 diarrhea/colitis, treat with intravenous steroids followed by 
high dose oral steroids.
o
When symptoms improve to Grade 1 or less, steroid taper should be started and 
continued over no less than 4 weeks.
x
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (if new onset, including diabetic ketoacidosis [DKA]RU
Grade 3 Hyperglycemia, if associated with ketosis (ketonuria) or metabolic acidosis 
(DKA)
o
For T1DM or Grade 3-4 Hyperglycemia

Insulin replacement therapy is recommended for Type I diabetes mellitus 
and for Grade 3-4 hyperglycemia associated with metabolic acidosis or 
ketonuria. 

Evaluate patients with serum glucose and a metabolic panel, urine ketones, 
glycosylated hemoglobin, and C-peptide. 
x
Hypophysitis:
o
For Grade 2 events, treat with corticosteroids. When symptoms improve to Grade 
1 or less, steroid taper should be started and continued over no less than 4 weeks. 
Replacement of appropriate hormones may be required as the steroid dose is 
tapered.
o
For Grade 3-4 events, treat with an initial dose of IV corticosteroid followed by 
oral corticosteroids. When symptoms improve to Grade 1 or less, steroid taper 
should be started and continued over no less than 4 weeks. Replacement of 
appropriate hormones may be required as the steroid dose is tapered.
x
Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism:
Thyroid disorders can occur at any time during treatment. Monitor patients for changes in 
thyroid function (at the start of treatment, periodically during treatment, and as indicated 
based on clinical evaluation) and for clinical signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders.
o
Grade 2 hyperthyroidism events (and Grade 2-4 hypothyroidism):

In hyperthyroidism, non-selective beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol) are 
suggested as initial therapy.

In hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement therapy, with 
levothyroxine or liothyroinine, is indicated per standard of care.
o
Grade 3-4 hyperthyroidism 

Treat with an initial dose of IV corticosteroid followed by oral 
corticosteroids. When symptoms improve to Grade 1 or less, steroid taper 
should be started and continued over no less than 4 weeks. Replacement of 
appropriate hormones may be required as the steroid dose is tapered.
x
Hepatic:


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o
For Grade 2 events, monitor liver function tests more frequently until returned to 
baseline values (consider weekly).

Treat with IV or oral corticosteroids
o
For Grade 3-4 events, treat with intravenous corticosteroids for 24 to 48 hours. 
o
When symptoms improve to Grade 1 or less, a steroid taper should be started and 
continued over no less than 4 weeks.
x
Renal Failure or Nephritis:
o
For Grade 2 events, treat with corticosteroids.
o
For Grade 3-4 events, treat with systemic corticosteroids.
o
When symptoms improve to Grade 1 or less, steroid taper should be started and 
continued over no less than 4 weeks.
x
Management of Infusion Reactions:
Signs and symptoms usually develop during or shortly after drug infusion and generally 
resolve completely within 24 hours of completion of infusion. 
Table 5 below shows treatment guidelines for subjects who experience an infusion reaction 
associated with administration of pembrolizumab (MK-3475).
Table 5. Infusion Reaction Treatment Guidelines
NCI CTCAE Grade
Treatment
Premedication at 
subsequent dosing
Grade 1
Mild reaction; infusion 
interruption not indicated; 
intervention not indicated
Increase monitoring of vital signs as 
medically indicated until the subject is 
deemed medically stable in the opinion 
of the investigator.
None
Grade 2
Requires infusion interruption 
but responds promptly to 
symptomatic treatment (e.g., 
antihistamines, NSAIDS, 
narcotics, IV fluids); 
prophylactic medications 
indicated for < =24 hrs
Stop Infusion and monitor symptoms.
Additional appropriate medical therapy 
may include but is not limited to:
IV fluids
Antihistamines
NSAIDS
Acetaminophen
Narcotics
Increase monitoring of vital signs as 
medically indicated until the subject is 
deemed medically stable in the opinion 
of the investigator.
If symptoms resolve within one hour of 
stopping drug infusion, the infusion may 
be restarted at 50% of the original
Subject may be 
premedicated 1.5h (± 30 
minutes) prior to infusion of 
pembrolizumab (MK-3475) 
with:
Diphenhydramine 50 mg po 
(or equivalent dose of 
antihistamine).
Acetaminophen 500-1000
mg po (or equivalent dose 
of antipyretic).


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NCI CTCAE Grade
Treatment
Premedication at 
subsequent dosing
infusion rate (e.g., from 100 mL/hr to 50 
mL/hr).  Otherwise dosing will be held 
until symptoms resolve and the subject 
should be premedicated for the next 
scheduled dose.
Subjects who develop Grade 2 toxicity 
despite adequate premedication 
should be permanently discontinued 
from further trial treatment 
administration.
Grades 3 or 4
Grade 3:
Prolonged (i.e., not rapidly 
responsive to symptomatic 
medication and/or brief 
interruption of infusion); 
recurrence of symptoms 
following initial improvement; 
hospitalization indicated for 
other clinical sequelae (e.g., 
renal impairment, pulmonary 
infiltrates)
Grade 4:
Life-threatening; pressor or 
ventilatory support indicated
Stop Infusion.
Additional appropriate medical therapy 
may include but is not limited to:
IV fluids
Antihistamines
NSAIDS
Acetaminophen
Narcotics
Oxygen
Pressors
Corticosteroids
Epinephrine
Increase monitoring of vital signs as 
medically indicated until the subject is 
deemed medically stable in the opinion 
of the investigator.
Hospitalization may be indicated.
Subject is permanently discontinued 
from further trial treatment 
administration.
No subsequent dosing
Appropriate resuscitation equipment should be available in the room and a physician readily available 
during the period of drug administration.
5
BIOSPECIMEN COLLECTION
5.1
Collection of Research (Immunologic) Blood Samples (all patients)
The amount of blood that may be drawn from adult patients (i.e., those persons 18 years of age 
or older) for research purposes shall not exceed 10.5 mL/kg or 550 mL, whichever is smaller, 
over any eight week period.


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5.1.1
Immunologic Parameters (every 3 weeks unless not logistically feasible)
x
Leukocyte CD3, CD4, CD8 subsets; CD4:CD8 ratio will be drawn at baseline and at 
each visit when on treatment (prior to vaccine) and then at follow-up visit while the 
patient remains on trial
x
Additional studies will include but are not limited to quantitative and qualitative 
assessments of regulatory T-cells, Natural Killers cells, and Myeloid Derived 
Suppressor Cells. 
x
Assessment of serum levels of cytokines.
x
Immunologic studies will be repeated more frequently if clinically indicated, and any 
abnormalities potentially related to treatment will be followed until they have 
resolved, or have been determined not to be treatment-related.
x
Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC): 
Intracellular cytokine staining assays for specific antigens may be done based on 
preliminary data.  
x
Phenotypic and functional analysis of immune cell subsets by flow cytometry.
5.1.1.1
Collection of Specimens
6 (10mL) green top sodium heparin tubes for PBMC; 2 (8mL) SST tubes for serum sample.
5.1.2
Natural Killer (NK) CELLS
The number and phenotype of NK cells will be determined by phenotypic analysis of PMBCs 
stained for CD56, CD3, CD8, and CD16 by flow cytometry.
5.1.3
Immune Subsets
Subsets of immune cells will also be followed in response to treatment.
5.1.4
Regulatory T Cells
Regulatory T cells have been shown to inhibit the activation and function of T cells that 
participate in antigen-specific immune responses.  Higher levels of regulatory T-cells have been 
reported in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with several types of tumors.  The 
number and phenotype of regulatory T-cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients 
in this study will be determined by 7-color flow cytometry analysis.  Cells will be resuspended in 
staining buffer (phosphate-buffered saline containing 3% fetal bovine serum) and stained for 
CD4, CD25, CD127, FoxP3, CTLA-4, CD45RA, and CD8.  The ratios between regulatory T-
cells and CD4 effector cells and the ratios between regulatory T-cells and CD8 Effector cells will 
also be analyzed.


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5.1.5
Additional Assays
Blood samples may be used for additional research studies, which may include one of the 
following - phenotypic and functional analysis of immune-cell subsets and analyses for cytokines 
(IFN-Ȗ,/-10, IL-12, IL-2, IL-4, etc.), chemokines, antibodies related to the tumor or vaccine,
tumor associated antigens related to the tumor or the vaccine, and/or other immune response 
markers.
5.1.6
Biopsy analysis by interventional radiology (Optional).
When logistically feasible, pre-treatment and post-treatment samples may be obtained from 
consenting patients.  Potential analysis could include PD1/PDL1 expression and immune cell 
infiltration.
5.1.7
Immunohistochemistry
The Laboratory of Pathology and the Warren G. Magnuson Clinical Center will perform 
Immunohistochemistry on biopsied tissue, if the patient elects to have the procedure.  
Immunohistochemistry of these tissue specimens will be obtained for CD4, CD8, and FOX-P3.  
In addition, phenotypic analysis of infiltrating immune cells will be performed.
Immunohistologic grading schema of the lesions 
Score
%positive cells of each subtype
0
0
1
1-25%
2
26-50%
3
>50%
All staining will be categorized as being membrane or nuclear
5.2
Sample Storage, Tracking and Disposition 
Samples will be ordered in CRIS and tracked through a Clinical Trial Data Management system.
Should a CRIS screen not be available, the CRIS downtime procedures will be followed.
Samples will not be sent outside NIH without IRB notification and an executed MTA.
5.2.1
Procedures for storage of tissue specimens in the Laboratory of Pathology
Tissues designated for clinical diagnostics are transported to the Laboratory of Pathology (LP) 
where they are examined grossly and relevant portions are fixed, embedded in paraffin and 
sectioned and stained for diagnostic interpretation.  Unutilized excess tissues are stored for up to 
three months, in accordance with College of American Pathologists/Joint Commission on 
Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (CAP/JCAHO) guidelines, and then discarded.  


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Following completion of the diagnostic workup, the slides and tissue blocks are stored 
indefinitely in the LP’s clinical archives.  All specimens are catalogued and retrieved utilizing
the clinical laboratory information systems, in accordance with CAP/JCAHO regulations.  The 
use of any stored specimens for research purposes is only allowed when the appropriate IRB 
approval has been obtained.  In some cases, this approval has been obtained via the original 
protocol on which the patient was enrolled.
5.2.2
Blood Processing Core - Storage
All samples sent to the Blood Processing Core (BPC) will be barcoded, with data entered and 
stored in the LABrador (aka LabSamples) utilized by the BPC. This is a secure program, with 
access to LABrador limited to defined Figg lab personnel, who are issued individual user 
accounts. Installation of LABrador is limited to computers specified by Dr. Figg. These 
computers all have a password restricted login screen. All Figg lab personnel with access to 
patient information annually complete the NIH online Protection of Human Subjects course. 
LABrador creates a unique barcode ID for every sample and sample box, which cannot be traced 
back to patients without LABrador access. The data recorded for each sample includes the 
patient ID, name, trial name/protocol number, time drawn, cycle time point, dose, material type, 
as well as box and freezer location. Patient demographics associated with the clinical center 
patient number are provided in the system. For each sample, there are notes associated with the 
processing method (delay in sample processing, storage conditions on the ward, etc.).
Barcoded samples are stored in barcoded boxes in a locked freezer at either -20 or -80qC
according to stability requirements.  These freezers are located onsite in the BPC and offsite at 
NCI Frederick Central Repository Services (American Type Culture Collection (ATCC)) in 
Frederick, MD. Visitors to the laboratory are required to be accompanied by laboratory staff at 
all times. 
Access to stored clinical samples is restricted. Samples will be stored until requested by a 
researcher named on the protocol. All requests are monitored and tracked in LABrador. All 
researchers are required to sign a form stating that the samples are only to be used for research 
purposes associated with this trial (as per the IRB approved protocol) and that any unused 
samples must be returned to the BPC. It is the responsibility of the NCI Principal Investigator to 
ensure that the samples requested are being used in a manner consistent with IRB approval.
Following completion of this study, samples will remain in storage as detailed above. Access to 
these samples will only be granted following IRB approval of an additional protocol, granting 
the rights to use the material. 
If, at any time, a patient withdraws from the study and does not wish for their existing samples to 
be utilized, the individual must provide a written request. Following receipt of this request, the 
samples will be destroyed (or returned to the patient, if so requested), and reported as such to the 
IRB. Any samples lost (in transit or by a researcher) or destroyed due to unknown sample 
integrity (i.e. broken freezer allows for extensive sample thawing, etc.) will be reported as such 
to the IRB.


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Sample barcodes are linked to patient demographics and limited clinical information. This 
information will only be provided to investigators listed on this protocol, via registered use of the 
LABrador. It is critical that the sample remains linked to patient information such as race, age, 
dates of diagnosis and death, and histological information about the tumor, in order to correlate 
genotype with these variables.
5.2.3
Samples Sent to Clinical Services Program (CSP)
The samples will be processed through: 
Clinical Services Program 
NCI Frederick Cancer Research and Development Center 
PO Box B 
Frederick, MD 21702 
301-846-1000
On days samples are drawn, Jen Bangh at CSP should be notified (phone: [301] 846-5893; fax 
[301] 846-6222). She will arrange same-day courier delivery of the specimens. 
The research samples will contain labels on the blood tubes that have the patient's initials, date of 
birth, the assigned protocol, and the date the sample was drawn. The transmittal forms 
accompanying the samples also contain the same information. 
Once a patient’s treatment schedule has been determined, it should be faxed to Caroline Jochems
at the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology/ NIH (Fax: [301] 496-2756; phone: [301] 
496-9573) for planning purposes.
All data associated with patient samples are protected by a secure database. All samples drawn at 
the NIH Clinical Center will be transported to the NCI Frederick Central Repository by Leidos 
couriers.
Samples will be tracked and managed by the Central Repository database. All samples will be 
stored in liquid nitrogen. These freezers are located at NCI Frederick Central Repository in 
Frederick, Maryland.
American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) manages the NCI-Frederick Central Repositories 
under subcontract to Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. NCI-Frederick Central Repositories store, 
among other things, biological specimens in support of NIH clinical studies. All specimens are 
stored in secure, limited access facilities with sufficient security, back up and emergency support 
capability and monitoring to ensure long-term integrity of the specimens for research. 
ATCC’s role is limited to clinical research databases and repositories containing patient 
specimens. ATCC does not conduct nor has any vested interest in research on human subjects, 
but does provide services and support the efforts of its customers, many of which are involved in 
research on human subjects. 


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It is the intent and purpose of ATCC to accept only de-identified samples and sample 
information. To the limit of our ability, every effort will be made to ensure that protected 
information is not sent electronically or by hard copy or on vial labels. 
Sample data is stored in the BioSpecimen Inventory System II (BSI). This inventory tracking 
system is used to manage the storage and retrieval of specimens as well as maintain specimen 
data. BSI is designed for controlled, concurrent access. It provides a real-time, multi-user 
environment for tracking millions of specimens. The system controls how and in what order 
database updates and searches are performed. This control prevents deadlocks and race 
conditions. For security, BSI has user password access, three types of user access levels, and 36 
user permissions (levels of access) that can be set to control access to the system functions. BSI 
provides audit tracking for processes that are done to specimens including shipping, returning to 
inventory, aliquoting, thawing, additives, and other processes. BSI tracks the ancestry of 
specimens as they are aliquoted, as well as discrepancies and discrepancy resolution for 
specimens received by the repository.  If a specimen goes out of the inventory, the system 
maintains data associated with the withdraw request. Vials are labeled with a unique BSI ID 
which is printed in both eye readable and bar coded format.  No patient specific information is 
encoded in this ID. 
Investigators are granted view, input and withdraw authority only for their specimens. They may 
not view specimen data or access specimens for which they have not been authorized. Access to 
specimen storage is confined to repository staff. Visitors to the repositories are escorted by 
repository staff at all times.
5.2.4
Protocol Completion/Sample Destruction
Once primary research objectives for the protocol are achieved, intramural researchers can 
request access to remaining samples, provided they have an IRB-approved protocol and patient 
consent.
Samples and associated data will be stored permanently unless the patient withdraws consent. If 
the patient withdraws consent the participant’s data will be excluded from future distributions, 
but data that have already been distributed for approved research use will not be able to be 
retrieved. The PI will report destroyed samples to the IRB if samples become unsalvageable or 
destroyed by environmental conditions (ex. broken freezer or lack of dry ice in shipping 
container) or if a patient chooses to withdraw his/her consent. Samples will also be reported as 
lost if they are lost in transit or misplaced by a researcher.  Freezer problems, lost samples or 
other problems associated with samples will also be reported to the IRB, the NCI Clinical 
Director, and the office of the CCR, NCI.


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6
DATA COLLECTION AND EVALUATION 
6.1
Data Collection
The PI will be responsible for overseeing entry of data into an in-house password protected 
electronic system (C3D) and ensuring data accuracy, consistency and timeliness. The principal 
investigator, associate investigators/research nurses and/or a contracted data manager will assist 
with the data management efforts. All data obtained during the conduct of the protocol will be 
kept in secure network drives or in approved alternative sites that comply with NIH security 
standards. Primary and final analyzed data will have identifiers so that research data can be 
attributed to an individual human subject participant.
Clinical data will be entered in a secure electronic database, NCI C3D database, and hard copies 
will be stored in locked, secured areas.  Completed eligibility checklists (developed by Central 
Registration Office, CRO), patient information/registration forms, and blood sample flow sheets 
will also be stored.  Copies of all records of adverse events will be kept in the regulatory binder.
Complete records must be maintained on each patient, including the hospital chart with any 
supplementary information obtained from outside laboratories, radiology reports, or physician's 
records.  These records will serve as the primary source material that forms the basis for the 
research record.  All relevant data will also be entered in a computer database from which formal 
analyses will be done.  
The primary source documentation will include: on-study information, including patient 
eligibility data and patient history; flow sheets, records of adverse events, specialty forms for 
pathology, radiation, or surgery; and off-study summary sheets, including a final assessment by 
the treating physician.
All adverse events, including clinically significant abnormal findings on laboratory evaluations, 
regardless of severity, will be followed until return to baseline or stabilization of event. Patients 
will be followed for adverse events for at least 30 days after removal from study treatment or 
until off-study, whichever comes first.
An abnormal laboratory value will be recorded in the database as an AE only if the laboratory 
abnormality is characterized by any of the following:
x
Results in discontinuation from the study
x
Is associated with clinical signs or symptoms 
x
Requires treatment or any other therapeutic intervention
x
Is associated with death or another serious adverse event, including hospitalization. 
x
Is judged by the Investigator to be of significant clinical impact
x
If any abnormal laboratory result is considered clinically significant, the investigator will 
provide details about the action taken with respect to the test drug and about the patient’s 
outcome.


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End of study procedures: Data will be stored according to HHS, FDA regulations, and NIH 
Intramural Records Retention Schedule as applicable.
Loss or destruction of data: Should we become aware that a major breach in our plan to protect 
subject confidentiality and trial data has occurred, the IRB will be notified. 
6.2
Data Sharing Plans
6.2.1
Human Data Sharing Plan
What data will be shared?
I will share human data generated in this research for future research as follows:
x
De-identified data in an NIH-funded or approved public repository.  
x
De-Identified data in BTRIS (automatic for activities in the Clinical Center)
x
De-identified or identified data with approved outside collaborators under appropriate 
agreements.
How and where will the data be shared? 
Data will be shared through:
x
An NIH-funded or approved public repository.  Insert name or names: clinicaltrials.gov .
x
BTRIS (automatic for activities in the Clinical Center)
x
Approved outside collaborators under appropriate individual agreements.
x
Publication and/or public presentations.
When will the data be shared? 
x
Before publication.
x
At the time of publication or shortly thereafter.
6.2.2
Genomic Data Sharing Plan
No genomic data will be gathered as part of this study.


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6.3
Response Criteria
For the purposes of this study, patients should be re-evaluated for response per the study calendar
(3.4).  In addition to a baseline scan, confirmatory scans should also be obtained not less than 4
weeks following initial documentation of objective response.
Responses will be assessed using both serum calcitonin levels and imaging using Immune 
Related Response Criteria below.
6.3.1
Serum Calcitonin 
For calcitonin, response assessment, the baseline calcitonin value will be established prior to 
treatment.  If multiple values have been obtained, the most recent value will be considered the
baseline unless the primary investigator feels that the value is unreliable.  In this case a note will 
document the reason for not using that value at enrollment and identification of an alternative 
baseline (obtained within 8 weeks of enrollment) will be used.
In order to be considered to have a “Calcitonin Response” patients must have a >50% decline 
from designated baseline value that is then confirmed on a subsequent serum calcitonin 
assessment at least one week later.
6.3.2
Imaging
Immune Related Response Criteria
Because of direct clinical observations of immune cell influx into tumor causing enlargement in 
some patients prior to sustained response, recently it has been suggested that clinical trials 
involving the use of immunotherapy use alternative guidelines, called immune related response 
criteria (irRC) to determine radiographic response or progression after therapy22.  These 
recommendations have been used in recent clinical trials.  One study of 227 subjects with 
metastatic melanoma showed that the approximately 10% of patients who had PD by modified 
WHO criteria but either of CR, PR or SD by irRC had a similar overall survival as those patients 
who had SD, PR or CR by both criteria. The irRC was created using bidimensional 
measurements (as previously widely used in the WHO criteria).  We have taken the concepts of 
the irRC and combined them with the recently revised RECIST 1.123
to come up with the 
modified irRC used in this protocol.  Consistent with the irRC, the main changes from RECIST 
1.1 are (a) a requirement for confirmation of both progression and response by imaging at least 4 
weeks after initial imaging and (b) not automatically calling the appearance of new lesions 
progressive disease if the total measurable tumor burden has not met criteria for progressive 
disease.  
For immune-related response criteria (irRC), only index and measurable new lesions are taken 
into account.  At baseline tumor assessment on this trial, target lesions will be measured along 
the longest axis and the measurements will be summed, called sum of largest diameter (SLD).  
These lesions must be a minimum of 10mm per lesion, maximum of 5 target lesions, maximum 
of 2 per organ system.  At each subsequent tumor assessment, the unidimensional measurement 
of target lesions and of new measureable lesions are added together to provide the total tumor 
burden:  As per the modified definitions below, all responses and progression except stable 


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disease (SD) require confirmation on a consecutive scan at least 4 weeks from the initial 
observation). 
Definitions of irRC:
Response
irRC
New measurable lesions 
Incorporated into tumor burden
New non-measurable 
lesions 
Do not define progression (but precludes irCR)
Non-index lesions
Contributes to defining irCR (complete disappearance required)
Overall irCR
100% disappearance of all lesions, whether measurable or not, and no new lesions, in 
two consecutive observations not less than 4 wks from the date first documented.  All 
measurable lymph nodes also must have reduction in short axis to <10mm.
Overall irPR
GHFUHDVH in SLD compared with baseline confirmed by a consecutive 
assessment at least 4 wk after first documentation
Overall irSD
Not meeting criteria for irCR or irPR, in absence of irPD:  30% decrease in SLD 
compared with baseline cannot be established nor 20% increase compared with nadir.
Overall irPD
At least 20% increase in SLD compared with nadir (minimum recorded tumor 
burden) and an increase of at least 5mm over the nadir, confirmed by a repeat, 
consecutive observations at least 4 wk from the date first documented.
Overall responses derived from changes in index, non-index and new lesions as demonstrated in 
the following table:
Measurable response
Non-measurable response
Overall response 
using irRC
Index and new, measurable 
lesions (tumor burden)* %
Non-index lesions
New, non-measurable 
lesions
Decrease 100
Absent
Absent
irCR&
Decrease 100
Stable
Any
irPR&
Decrease 100
Unequivocal 
progression
Any
irPR&
'HFUHDVH
Absent / Stable
Any
irPR&
'HFUHDVH
Unequivocal 
progression
Any
irPR&


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Decrease < 30 to increase < 20
Absent / Stable
Any
irSD
Decrease < 30 to increase < 20
Unequivocal 
progression
Any
irSD
,QFUHDVH
Any
Any
irPD
* Decreases assessed relative to baseline 
& Assuming response (irCR) and progression (irPD) are confirmed by a second, consecutive assessment at least 4 
weeks apart.
6.3.3
Disease Parameters
Evaluable disease:  Disease that can be evaluated on imaging but does not meet the measurable 
disease criteria below. 
Measurable disease: Measurable lesions are defined as those that can be accurately measured in 
at least one dimension (longest diameter to be recorded):
x
By chest x-ray: >20 mm;
x
By CT scan: 
o
Scan slice thickness 5 mm or under: as >10 mm
o
Scan slice thickness >5 mm: double the slice thickness
With calipers on clinical exam: >10 mm. Malignant lymph nodes. To be considered 
pathologically enlarged and measurable, a lymph node must be >15 mm in short axis when 
assessed by CT scan (CT scan slice thickness recommended to be no greater than 5 mm).  At 
baseline and in follow-up, only the short axis will be measured and followed.
Non-measurable disease.  All other lesions (or sites of disease), including small lesions (longest 
diameter <10 mm or SDWKRORJLFDOO\PSKQRGHVZLWK10 to <15 mm short axis), are considered 
non-measurable disease.  Bone lesions, leptomeningeal disease, ascites, pleural/pericardial 
effusions, lymphangitis cutis/pulmonitis, inflammatory breast disease, and abdominal masses 
(not followed by CT or MRI), are considered as non-measurable.
Note:  Cystic lesions that meet the criteria for radiographically defined simple cysts should not 
be considered as malignant lesions (neither measurable nor non-measurable) since they are, by 
definition, simple cysts.
‘Cystic lesions’ thought to represent cystic metastases can be considered as measurable lesions, 
if they meet the definition of measurability described above. However, if non-cystic lesions are 
present in the same patient, these are preferred for selection as target lesions.
Target lesions. All measurable lesions up to a maximum of 2 lesions per organ and 5 lesions in 
total, representative of all involved organs, should be identified as target lesions and recorded 
and measured at baseline.  Target lesions should be selected on the basis of their size (lesions 
with the longest diameter), be representative of all involved organs, but in addition should be 
those that lend themselves to reproducible repeated measurements.  It may be the case that, on 


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occasion, the largest lesion does not lend itself to reproducible measurement in which 
circumstance the next largest lesion which can be measured reproducibly should be selected.  A 
sum of the diameters (longest for non-nodal lesions, short axis for nodal lesions) for all target 
lesions will be calculated and reported as the baseline sum diameters.  If lymph nodes are to be 
included in the sum, then only the short axis is added into the sum.  The baseline sum diameters 
will be used as reference to further characterize any objective tumor regression in the measurable 
dimension of the disease.
Non-target lesions.  All other lesions (or sites of disease) including any measurable lesions over 
and above the 5 target lesions should be identified as non-target lesions and should also be 
recorded at baseline.  Measurements of these lesions are not required, but the presence, absence, 
or in rare cases unequivocal progression of each should be noted throughout follow-up.
6.3.4
Methods for Evaluation of Measurable Disease
All measurements should be taken and recorded in metric notation using a ruler or calipers.  All 
baseline evaluations should be performed as closely as possible to the beginning of treatment and 
never more than 4 weeks before the beginning of the treatment.
The same method of assessment and the same technique should be used to characterize each 
identified and reported lesion at baseline and during follow-up. Imaging-based evaluation is 
preferred to evaluation by clinical examination unless the lesion(s) being followed cannot be 
imaged but are assessable by clinical exam.
Clinical lesions: Clinical lesions will only be considered measurable when they are superficial 
(e.g., skin nodules and palpable lymph nodes) and t10 mm diameter as assessed using calipers 
(e.g., skin nodules).  In the case of skin lesions, documentation by color photography, including a 
ruler to estimate the size of the lesion, is recommended. 
Chest x-ray: Lesions on chest x-ray are acceptable as measurable lesions when they are clearly 
defined and surrounded by aerated lung. However, CT is preferable. 
Conventional CT and MRI: This guideline has defined measurability of lesions on CT scan 
based on the assumption that CT slice thickness is 5 mm or less.  If CT scans have slice thickness 
greater than 5 mm, the minimum size for a measurable lesion should be twice the slice thickness.  
MRI is also acceptable in certain situations (e.g. for body scans).  
Use of MRI remains a complex issue.  MRI has excellent contrast, spatial, and temporal 
resolution; however, there are many image acquisition variables involved in MRI, which greatly 
impact image quality, lesion conspicuity, and measurement.  Furthermore, the availability of 
MRI is variable globally.  As with CT, if an MRI is performed, the technical specifications of the 
scanning sequences used should be optimized for the evaluation of the type and site of disease.  
Furthermore, as with CT, the modality used at follow-up should be the same as was used at 
baseline and the lesions should be measured/assessed on the same pulse sequence.  It is beyond 
the scope of the RECIST guidelines to prescribe specific MRI pulse sequence parameters for all 
scanners, body parts, and diseases.  Ideally, the same type of scanner should be used and the 
image acquisition protocol should be followed as closely as possible to prior scans.  Body scans 
should be performed with breath-hold scanning techniques, if possible.


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PET-CT: At present, the low dose or attenuation correction CT portion of a combined PET-CT 
is not always of optimal diagnostic CT quality for use with RECIST measurements.  However, if 
the site can document that the CT performed as part of a PET-CT is of identical diagnostic 
quality to a diagnostic CT (with IV and oral contrast), then the CT portion of the PET-CT can be 
used for RECIST measurements and can be used interchangeably with conventional CT in 
accurately measuring cancer lesions over time.  Note, however, that the PET portion of the CT 
introduces additional data which may bias an investigator if it is not routinely or serially 
performed.  
Ultrasound: Ultrasound is not useful in assessment of lesion size and should not be used as a 
method of measurement.  Ultrasound examinations cannot be reproduced in their entirety for 
independent review at a later date and, because they are operator dependent, it cannot be 
guaranteed that the same technique and measurements will be taken from one assessment to the 
next.  If new lesions are identified by ultrasound in the course of the study, confirmation by CT 
or MRI is advised.  If there is concern about radiation exposure at CT, MRI may be used instead 
of CT in selected instances.
Endoscopy, Laparoscopy: The utilization of these techniques for objective tumor evaluation is 
not advised.  However, such techniques may be useful to confirm complete pathological 
response when biopsies are obtained or to determine relapse in trials where recurrence following 
complete response (CR) or surgical resection is an endpoint.
Cytology, Histology: These techniques can be used to differentiate between partial responses 
(PR) and complete responses (CR) in rare cases (e.g., residual lesions in tumor types, such as 
germ cell tumors, where known residual benign tumors can remain).
The cytological confirmation of the neoplastic origin of any effusion that appears or worsens 
during treatment when the measurable tumor has met criteria for response or stable disease is 
mandatory to differentiate between response or stable disease (an effusion may be a side effect of 
the treatment) and progressive disease.
FDG-PET: While FDG-PET response assessments need additional study, it is sometimes 
reasonable to incorporate the use of FDG-PET scanning to complement CT scanning in 
assessment of progression (particularly possible 'new' disease).  New lesions on the basis of 
FDG-PET imaging can be identified according to the following algorithm: 
a. Negative FDG-PET at baseline, with a positive FDG-PET at follow-up is a sign of 
PD based on a new lesion.
b. No FDG-PET at baseline and a positive FDG-PET at follow-up:  If the positive FDG-
PET at follow-up corresponds to a new site of disease confirmed by CT, this is PD.  If 
the positive FDG-PET at follow-up is not confirmed as a new site of disease on CT, 
additional follow-up CT  scans are needed to determine if there is truly progression 
occurring at that site (if so, the date of PD will be the date of the initial abnormal 
FDG-PET scan).  If the positive FDG-PET at follow-up corresponds to a pre-existing 
site of disease on CT that is not progressing on the basis of the anatomic images, this 
is not PD.
c.
FDG-PET may be used to upgrade a response to a CR in a manner similar to a biopsy 
in cases where a residual radiographic abnormality is thought to represent fibrosis or 
scarring.  The use of FDG-PET in this circumstance should be prospectively 


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described in the protocol and supported by disease-specific medical literature for the 
indication.  However, it must be acknowledged that both approaches may lead to false 
positive CR due to limitations of FDG-PET and biopsy resolution/sensitivity.
Note:  A ‘positive’ FDG-PET scan lesion means one which is FDG avid with an uptake greater 
than twice that of the surrounding tissue on the attenuation corrected image.
6.3.5
Duration of Response
Duration of overall response:  The duration of overall response is measured from the time 
measurement criteria are met for CR or PR (whichever is first recorded) until the first date that 
recurrent or progressive disease is objectively documented (taking as reference for progressive 
disease the smallest measurements recorded since the treatment started).
The duration of overall CR is measured from the time measurement criteria are first met for CR 
until the first date that progressive disease is objectively documented.
Duration of stable disease:  Stable disease is measured from the start of the treatment until the 
criteria for progression are met, taking as reference the smallest measurements recorded since the 
treatment started, including the baseline measurements. 
6.3.6
Progression-Free Survival
PFS is defined as the duration of time from start of treatment to time of progression or death, 
whichever occurs first.
6.4
Toxicity Criteria
The following adverse event management guidelines are intended to ensure the safety of each 
patient while on the study.  The descriptions and grading scales found in the revised NCI 
Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 4.0 will be utilized for AE 
reporting. All appropriate treatment areas should have access to a copy of the CTCAE version 
4.0. A copy of the CTCAE version 4.0 can be downloaded from the CTEP web site 
(http://ctep.cancer.gov/protocolDevelopment/electronic_applications/ctc.htm#ctc_40). 
7
SAFETY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS/DATA AND SAFETY MONITORING 
PLAN
7.1
Definitions
7.1.1
Adverse Event
Any untoward medical occurrence in a human subject, including any abnormal sign (for 
example, abnormal physical exam or laboratory finding), symptom, or disease, temporally 
associated with the subject’s participation in research, whether or not considered related to the 
subject’s participation in the research.


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7.1.2
Suspected adverse reaction
Suspected adverse reaction means any adverse event for which there is a reasonable possibility 
that the drug caused the adverse event. For the purposes of IND safety reporting, ‘reasonable 
possibility’ means there is evidence to suggest a causal relationship between the drug and the 
adverse event. A suspected adverse reaction implies a lesser degree of certainty about causality 
than adverse reaction, which means any adverse event caused by a drug.
7.1.3
Unexpected adverse reaction
An adverse event or suspected adverse reaction is considered “unexpected” if it is not listed in 
the investigator brochure or is not listed at the specificity or severity that has been observed; or, 
if an investigator brochure is not required or available, is not consistent with the risk information 
described in the general investigational plan or elsewhere in the current application. 
"Unexpected” also refers to adverse events or suspected adverse reactions that are mentioned in 
the investigator brochure as occurring with a class of drugs or as anticipated from the 
pharmacological properties of the drug, but are not specifically mentioned as occurring with the 
particular drug under investigation.
7.1.4
Serious 
An Unanticipated Problem or Protocol Deviation is serious if it meets the definition of a Serious 
Adverse Event or if it compromises the safety, welfare or rights of subjects or others.
7.1.5
Serious Adverse Event
An adverse event or suspected adverse reaction is considered serious if in the view of the 
investigator or the sponsor, it results in any of the following:
x
Death,
x
A life-threatening adverse drug experience
x
Inpatient hospitalization or prolongation of existing hospitalization
x
Persistent or significant incapacity or substantial disruption of the ability to conduct 
normal life functions
x
A congenital anomaly/birth defect.
x
Important medical events that may not result in death, be life-threatening, or require 
hospitalization may be considered a serious adverse drug experience when, based upon 
appropriate medical judgment, they may jeopardize the patient or subject and may require 
medical or surgical intervention to prevent one of the outcomes listed in this definition.
7.1.6
Disability
A substantial disruption of a person’s ability to conduct normal life functions.


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7.1.7
Life-threatening adverse drug experience
Any adverse event or suspected adverse reaction that places the patient or subject, in the view of 
the investigator or sponsor, at immediate risk of death from the reaction as it occurred, i.e., it 
does not include a reaction that had it occurred in a more severe form, might have caused death.
7.1.8
Protocol Deviation (NIH Definition)
Any change, divergence, or departure from the IRB-approved research protocol.  
7.1.9
Non-compliance (NIH Definition)
The failure to comply with applicable NIH Human Research Protections Program (HRPP)
policies, IRB requirements, or regulatory requirements for the protection of human research 
subjects.
7.1.10 Unanticipated Problem
Any incident, experience, or outcome that:
x
Is unexpected in terms of nature, severity, or frequency in relation to 
(a) the research risks that are described in the IRB-approved research protocol and 
informed consent document; Investigator’s Brochure or other study documents, and
(b) the characteristics of the subject population being studied; AND
x
Is related or possibly related to participation in the research; AND
x
Suggests that the research places subjects or others at a greater risk of harm (including 
physical, psychological, economic, or social harm) than was previously known or 
recognized.
7.2
NCI-IRB and Clinical Director (CD) Reporting
7.2.1
NCI-IRB and NCI CD Expedited Reporting of Unanticipated Problems and Deaths
The Protocol PI will report in the NIH Problem Form to the NCI-IRB and NCI CD:
x
All deaths, except deaths due to progressive disease
x
All Protocol Deviations
x
All Unanticipated Problems
x
All non-compliance
Reports must be received within 7 days of PI awareness via iRIS.
7.2.2
NCI-IRB Requirements for PI Reporting at Continuing Review
The protocol PI will report to the NCI-IRB: 


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1. A summary of all protocol deviations in a tabular format to include the date the deviation 
occurred, a brief description of the deviation and any corrective action.
2. A summary of any instances of non-compliance
3. A tabular summary of the following adverse events:
x
All Grade 2 unexpected events that are possibly, probably or definitely related to the 
research; 
x
All Grade 3 and 4 events that are possibly, probably or definitely related to the
research; 
x
All Grade 5 events regardless of attribution; 
x
All Serious Events regardless of attribution. 
NOTE: Grade 1 events are not required to be reported. 
7.3
Safety Reporting Criteria to the Pharmaceutical Collaborator
7.3.1
Serious Adverse Events
The investigator should submit all serious adverse events on a Medwatch 3500 Form within 2 
working days of receipt to Merck Global Safety. (Attn: Worldwide Product Safety; FAX 215-
661-6229)
7.3.2
Reporting of Overdose
All reports of overdose with and without an adverse event must be reported within 2 working 
days of receipt to Merck Global Safety. (Attn: Worldwide Product Safety; FAX 215-661-6229)
For purposes of this trial, an overdose of pembrolizumab will be defined as any dose of 1,000 mg 
RUJUHDWHUWLPHVWKHLQGLFDWHGGRVHNo specific information is available on the treatment of 
overdose of pembrolizumab. Appropriate supportive treatment should be provided if clinically 
indicated. In the event of overdose, the subject should be observed closely for signs of toxicity.  
Appropriate supportive treatment should be provided if clinically indicated.
7.3.3
Reporting of Pregnancy and Lactation 
Although pregnancy and lactation are not considered adverse events, it is the responsibility of 
investigators or their designees to report any pregnancy or lactation in a subject (spontaneously 
reported to them) that occurs during the trial.
Pregnancies and lactations that occur after the consent form is signed but before treatment 
allocation/randomization must be reported by the investigator if they cause the subject to be 
excluded from the trial, or are the result of a protocol-specified intervention, including but not 
limited to washout or discontinuation of usual therapy, diet, placebo treatment or a procedure.  
Pregnancies and lactations that occur from the time of treatment allocation/randomization 
through 120 days following cessation of manufacturer’s product, or 30 days following cessation 
of treatment if the subject initiates new anticancer therapy, whichever is earlier, must be reported 
by the investigator.  All reported pregnancies must be followed to the completion/termination of 


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the pregnancy. Pregnancy outcomes of spontaneous abortion, missed abortion, benign 
hydatidiform mole, blighted ovum, fetal death, intrauterine death, miscarriage and stillbirth must 
be reported as serious events (Important Medical Events). If the pregnancy continues to term, the 
outcome (health of infant) must also be reported.
Such events must be reported within 2 working days of receipt to Merck Global Safety. (Attn: 
Worldwide Product Safety; FAX 215-661-6229).
7.4
Data and Safety Monitoring Plan
7.4.1
Principal Investigator/Research Team 
The clinical research team will meet on a regular basis at least monthly when patients are being 
actively treated on the trial to discuss each patient. Decisions about dose level enrollment and 
dose escalation if applicable will be made based on the toxicity data from prior patients. 
All data will be collected in a timely manner and reviewed by the principal investigator or a lead 
associate investigator. Adverse events will be reported as required above. Any safety concerns, 
new information that might affect either the ethical and or scientific conduct of the trial, or 
protocol deviations will be immediately reported to the IRB using iRIS.
The principal investigator will review adverse event and response data on each patient to ensure 
safety and data accuracy. The principal investigator will personally conduct or supervise the 
investigation and provide appropriate delegation of responsibilities to other members of the 
research staff. 
8
STATISTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
The primary objective of this trial is to determine whether administering a PD1 inhibitor to 
patients with medullary thyroid cancer will permit a modest fraction to be able to experience a 
50% or greater decline in calcitonin levels or experience a clinical response by partial/complete 
response on imaging.
Patients on this trial will be enrolled into two cohorts: patients who have previously received 
vaccine and patients who have not previously received vaccine. The results from each cohort will 
be considered individually.
In each cohort, the trial will be conducted as a single stage pilot trial of 15 evaluable patients. It 
is expected that this regimen will result in a limited fraction of patients who experience a 50% or 
greater decline in calcitonin levels or experience a clinical response by partial/complete response 
on imaging. If the true probability that patients will experience a 50% decline in calcitonin or 
respond is 10%, there is only 5.6% probability or having 4 or more of 15 do so, while if the true 
probability is 40% or more, there is 90.9% or greater probability of observing 4 or more who 
experience this decline or respond. Thus, observing 4 or more with this decline or a response in a 
cohort is more likely to be associated with a modest fraction with 50% or greater decline in 
calcitonin levels or respond than if fewer patients in a cohort experience this decline or respond. 
A 95% confidence interval will also be formed about the observed proportion of patients who 
experience a 50% or greater decline or respond, and the actual decline percentages for patients 


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on both cohorts will be reported descriptively, as well as the fraction who experience a clinical
response. With limited numbers of patients in this trial, there will be low power to do a formal 
comparison of the two cohorts; information about the proportion with substantial declines or 
responses in either cohort may be used to guide development of future trials using this approach.
It is anticipated that 1 patient per month may enroll onto this trial. Thus, to obtain 30 evaluable 
patients, approximately 2 to 3 years of accrual is anticipated. In order to allow for a small 
number of inevaluable patients, the accrual ceiling will be set to 32 patients.
9
COLLABORATIVE AGREEMENTS
9.1
Clinical Trials Agreement (CTA)
This study will be conducted with Merck as part of a Clinical Trials Agreement (CTA), CTA#
01054-17.
10 HUMAN SUBJECTS PROTECTIONS 
10.1 Rationale For Subject Selection
This study will enroll a minimally symptomatic adult population with medullary thyroid cancer.  
Preliminary data discussed in the background of the protocol suggests the potential benefit of 
immunotherapy in these patients.  
10.2 Participation of Children
Patients under the age of 18 will not be eligible to enroll on this protocol due to unknown effects 
of this protocol therapy in this age group with medullary thyroid cancer.
10.3 Participation of Subjects Unable to Give Consent
Adults unable to give consent are excluded from enrolling in the protocol.  However, re-consent 
may be necessary and there is a possibility, though unlikely, that subjects could become 
decisionally impaired. For this reason and because there is a prospect of direct benefit from 
research participation (section 10.5), all subjects DJH will be offered the opportunity to fill 
in their wishes for research and care, and assign a substitute decision maker on the “NIH 
Advance Directive for Health Care and Medical Research Participation” form so that another 
person can make decisions about their medical care in the event that they become incapacitated 
or cognitively impaired during the course of the study. Note: The PI or AI will contact the NIH 
Ability to Consent Assessment Team for evaluation.  For those subjects that become 
incapacitated and do not have pre-determined substitute decision maker, the procedures 
described in MAS Policy 87-4 for appointing a surrogate decision maker for adult subjects who 
are (a) decisionally impaired, and (b) who do not have a legal guardian or durable power of 
attorney, will be followed.


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10.4 Evaluation of Benefits and Risks/Discomforts
The potential benefits of this protocol therapy remain unclear in this population of patients, but 
preliminary data described in the background suggests the potential for benefit in some patients.  
The potential side effect profile of pembrolizumab is described in Section 11.
10.4.1 Optional Biopsies 
All care will be taken to minimize risks that may be incurred by tumor sampling. However, there are 
procedure-related risks (such as bleeding, infection and visceral injury) that will be explained fully 
during informed consent. If patients suffer any physical injury as a result of the biopsies, immediate 
medical treatment is available at the NCI’s Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
Although no compensation is available, any injury will be fully evaluated and treated in keeping with 
the benefits or care to which patients are entitled under applicable regulations. 
Some biopsies may be performed with CT guidance. If that is the case, then this research study 
involves exposure to radiation from up to 2 CT scans, at baseline prior to starting treatment and at 
the end of treatment (at 2 years). The effective dose per one CT scan will be 0.77 rem. This is 
below the guideline of 5.0 rem per year allowed for research subjects by the NIH Radiation Safety 
Committee.
10.5 Risks/Benefits Analysis
This study will enroll a minimally symptomatic adult population with medullary thyroid cancer.  
These patients are generally monitored in conventional practice at this stage as the lack of 
substantial symptoms from disease negates the need for FDA-approved therapies which are often 
accompanied by toxicities.  Although immune related adverse events are possible with this study, 
they are likely manageable and will not substantially impact the quality of life of these patients.  
The potential benefits of pembrolizumab have yet to be determined in medullary thyroid cancer, 
although preliminary data from a small number of patients described in the background is 
hypothesis-generating.  Thus in a risk reward analysis (a discussion that will be part of the 
informed consent process with each patient) this study allows the patients to have an opportunity 
to try a modern immunotherapeutic agent that is FDA approved for other cancers during a 
therapeutic window of opportunity.
10.6 Consent Process and Documentation
The investigational nature and objectives of this trial, the procedures involved, and their 
attendant risks and discomforts, potential benefits, and potential alternative therapies will be 
explained to the patient and a signed informed consent document obtained.  All associate 
investigators who have clinical privileges listed in this protocol are permitted to obtain informed 
consent. For the optional biopsy for research in the protocol, the patient will consent at the time 
of the procedure.  If the patient refuses the optional biopsy at that time, the refusal will be 
documented in the medical record and in the research record.


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10.6.1 Telephone Re-Consent Procedure
Re-consent on this study may be obtained via telephone according to the following procedure: 
the informed consent document will be sent to the subject. An explanation of the study will be 
provided over the telephone after the subject has had the opportunity to read the consent form. 
The subject will sign and date the informed consent. A witness to the subject’s signature will
sign and date the consent.  The original informed consent document will be sent back to the 
consenting investigator who will sign and date the consent form with the date the consent was 
obtained via telephone. A fully executed copy will be returned via mail for the subject’s records. 
The informed consent process will be documented on a progress note by the consenting
investigator and a copy of the informed consent document will be kept in the subject’s research 
record.
10.6.2 Informed Consent of Non-English Speaking Subjects
If there is an unexpected enrollment of a research participant for whom there is no translated 
extant IRB approved consent document, the principal investigator and/or those authorized to 
obtain informed consent will use the Short Form Oral Consent Process as described in MAS 
Policy M77-2, OHSRP SOP 12, 45 CFR 46.117 (b) (2), and 21 CFR 50.27 (b) (2).  The 
summary that will be used is the English version of the extant IRB approved consent document.  
Signed copies of both the English version of the consent and the translated short form will be 
given to the subject or their legally authorized representative and the signed original will be filed 
in the medical record.
Unless the PI is fluent in the prospective subject’s language, an interpreter will be present to 
facilitate the conversation (using either the long translated form or the short form). Preferably 
someone who is independent of the subject (i.e., not a family member) will assist in presenting 
information and obtaining consent. Whenever possible, interpreters will be provided copies of 
the relevant consent documents well before the consent conversation with the subject (24 to 48 
hours if possible). 
We request prospective IRB approval of the use of the short form process for non-English 
speaking subjects and will notify the IRB at the time of continuing review of the frequency of the 
use of the Short Form.
10.7 Contraception
Pembrolizumab may have adverse effects on a fetus in utero.  Furthermore, it is not known if 
pembrolizumab has transient adverse effects on the composition of sperm.  
For this trial, male subjects will be considered to be of non-reproductive potential if they have 
azoospermia (whether due to having had a vasectomy or due to an underlying medical 
condition).  
Female subjects will be considered of non-reproductive potential if they are either: 
(1) postmenopausal (defined as at least 12 months with no menses without an alternative 
medical cause; in women < 45 years of age a high follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) 


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level in the postmenopausal range may be used to confirm a post-menopausal state in 
women not using hormonal contraception or hormonal replacement therapy. In the 
absence of 12 months of amenorrhea, a single FSH measurement is insufficient.); 
OR 
(2) have had a hysterectomy and/or bilateral oophorectomy, bilateral salpingectomy or 
bilateral tubal ligation/occlusion, at least 6 weeks prior to screening; 
OR 
(3) has a congenital or acquired condition that prevents childbearing.
Female and male subjects of reproductive potential must agree to avoid becoming pregnant or 
impregnating a partner, respectively, while receiving study drug and for 120 days after the last 
dose of study drug by complying with one of the following:  
(1) practice abstinence† from heterosexual activity; 
OR 
(2) use (or have their partner use) acceptable contraception during heterosexual activity.  
Acceptable methods of contraception are‡:
Single method (one of the following is acceptable):
x
intrauterine device (IUD)
x
vasectomy of a female subject’s male partner 
x
contraceptive rod implanted into the skin
Combination method (requires use of two of the following):
x
diaphragm with spermicide (cannot be used in conjunction with cervical cap/spermicide)
x
cervical cap with spermicide (nulliparous women only)
x
contraceptive sponge (nulliparous women only) 
x
male condom or female condom (cannot be used together)
x
hormonal contraceptive: oral contraceptive pill (estrogen/progestin pill or progestin-only 
pill), contraceptive skin patch, vaginal contraceptive ring, or subcutaneous contraceptive 
injection
†Abstinence (relative to heterosexual activity) can be used as the sole method of contraception if 
it is consistently employed as the subject’s preferred and usual lifestyle and if considered 
acceptable by local regulatory agencies and ERCs/IRBs.  Periodic abstinence (e.g., calendar, 
ovulation, sympto-thermal, post-ovulation methods, etc.) and withdrawal are not acceptable 
methods of contraception. 
‡If a contraceptive method listed above is restricted by local regulations/guidelines, then it does 
not qualify as an acceptable method of contraception for subjects participating at sites in this 


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country/region.
Subjects should be informed that taking the study medication may involve unknown risks to the 
fetus (unborn baby) if pregnancy were to occur during the study.  In order to participate in the 
study subjects of childbearing potential must adhere to the contraception requirement (described 
above) from the day of study medication initiation (or 14 days prior to the initiation of study 
medication for oral contraception) throughout the study period up to 120 days after the last dose 
of trial therapy.  If there is any question that a subject of childbearing potential will not reliably 
comply with the requirements for contraception, that subject should not be entered into the study.
10.8 Use In Pregnancy
If a subject inadvertently becomes pregnant while on treatment with pembrolizumab, the subject 
will immediately be removed from the study.  The site will contact the subject at least monthly 
and document the subject’s status until the pregnancy has been completed or terminated.  The 
outcome of the pregnancy will be reported to the study PI and to Merck without delay and within 
24 hours to the study PI and within 2 working days to Merck if the outcome is a serious adverse 
experience (e.g., death, abortion, congenital anomaly, or other disabling or life-threatening 
complication to the mother or newborn).  
The study PI will make every effort to obtain permission to follow the outcome of the pregnancy 
and the condition of the fetus or newborn. If a male subject impregnates his female partner the 
study personnel at the site must be informed immediately and the pregnancy reported to the 
study PI and to Merck and followed as described above and in Section 7.3.3.
10.9 Use In Nursing Women
It is unknown whether pembrolizumab is excreted in human milk.  Since many drugs are 
excreted in human milk, and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in the nursing 
infant, subjects who are breast-feeding are not eligible for enrollment.
11 PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION  
11.1 Pembrolizumab (MK-3475)
11.1.1 Source
Pembrolizumab will be provided to the NCI pharmacy as part of a clinical trial agreement.
There will be no IND obtained for the use of Pembrolizumab in this study.  This study meets the 
criteria for exemption for an IND as this investigation is not intended to support a new 
indication for use or any other significant change to the labeling; the drug is already approved 
and marketed and the investigation is not intended to support a significant change in advertising; 
and the investigation does not involve a route of administration or dosage level in use in a patient 
population or other factor that significantly increases the risks (or decreases the acceptability of 
the risks) associated with the use of the drug product.


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11.1.2 Toxicity
x
Immune-mediated pneumonitis, including fatal cases, occurred in patients receiving 
pembrolizumab. Pneumonitis occurred in 32 (2.0%) of 1567 patients, including Grade 1 
(0.8%), 2 (0.8%), and 3 (0.4%) pneumonitis. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of 
pneumonitis. Evaluate suspected pneumonitis with radiographic imaging. Administer 
corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater pneumonitis. Withhold pembrolizumab for Grade 2; 
permanently discontinue pembrolizumab for Grade 3 or 4 or recurrent Grade 2
pneumonitis. 
x
Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 31 (2%) of 1567 patients, including Grade 2 (0.5%), 
3 (1.1%), and 4 (0.1%) colitis. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of colitis. 
Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater colitis. Withhold pembrolizumab for 
Grade 2 or 3; permanently discontinue pembrolizumab for Grade 4 colitis. 
x
Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 16 (1%) of 1567 patients, including Grade 2 
(0.1%), 3 (0.7%), and 4 (0.1%) hepatitis. Monitor patients for changes in liver function. 
Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater hepatitis and, based on severity of liver 
enzyme elevations, withhold or discontinue pembrolizumab. 
x
Hypophysitis occurred in 13 (0.8%) of 1567 patients, including Grade 2 (0.3%), 3 
(0.3%), and 4 (0.1%) hypophysitis. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of 
hypophysitis (including hypopituitarism and adrenal insufficiency). Administer 
corticosteroids and hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold 
pembrolizumab for Grade 2; withhold or discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 hypophysitis. 
x
Hyperthyroidism occurred in 51 (3.3%) of 1567 patients, including Grade 2 (0.6%) and 3 
(0.1%) hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurred in 127 (8.1%) of 1567 patients, 
including Grade 3 (0.1%) hypothyroidism. Thyroid disorders can occur at any time 
during treatment. Monitor patients for changes in thyroid function (at the start of 
treatment, periodically during treatment, and as indicated based on clinical evaluation) 
and for clinical signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders. Administer replacement 
hormones for hypothyroidism and manage hyperthyroidism with thionamides and beta-
blockers as appropriate. Withhold or discontinue pembrolizumab® (pembrolizumab) for 
Grade 3 or 4 hyperthyroidism. 
x
Type 1 diabetes mellitus, including diabetic ketoacidosis, occurred in 3 (0.1%) of 2117 
patients. Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. 
Administer insulin for type 1 diabetes, and withhold pembrolizumab and administer anti-
hyperglycemics in patients with severe hyperglycemia. 
x
Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 7 (0.4%) of 1567 patients, including Grade 2 
(0.2%), 3 (0.2%), and 4 (0.1%) nephritis. Monitor patients for changes in renal function. 
Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater nephritis. Withhold pembrolizumab for 
Grade 2; permanently discontinue pembrolizumab for Grade 3 or 4 nephritis. 
x
Other clinically important immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur. For suspected 
immune-mediated adverse reactions, ensure adequate evaluation to confirm etiology or 
exclude other causes. Based on the severity of the adverse reaction, withhold 


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pembrolizumab and administer corticosteroids. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, 
initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Based on limited 
data from clinical studies in patients whose immune-related adverse reactions could not 
be controlled with corticosteroid use, administration of other systemic 
immunosuppressants can be considered. Resume pembrolizumab when the adverse 
reaction remains at Grade 1 or less following corticosteroid taper. Permanently 
discontinue pembrolizumab for any Grade 3 immune-mediated adverse reaction that 
recurs and for any life-threatening immune-mediated adverse reaction. 
x
The following clinically significant, immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred in less 
than 1% (unless otherwise indicated) of 1567 patients: arthritis (1.6%), exfoliative 
dermatitis, bullous pemphigoid, uveitis, myositis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia 
gravis, vasculitis, pancreatitis, hemolytic anemia, and partial seizures arising in a patient 
with inflammatory foci in brain parenchyma. 
x
Severe and life-threatening infusion-related reactions have been reported in 3 (0.1%) of 
2117 patients. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions 
including rigors, chills, wheezing, pruritus, flushing, rash, hypotension, hypoxemia, and 
fever. For Grade 3 or 4 reactions, stop infusion and permanently discontinue 
pembrolizumab. 
x
Based on its mechanism of action, pembrolizumab can cause fetal harm when 
administered to a pregnant woman. If used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes 
pregnant during treatment, apprise the patient of the potential hazard to a fetus. Advise 
females of reproductive potential to use highly effective contraception during treatment 
and for 4 months after the last dose of pembrolizumab. 
x
In Trial 6, pembrolizumab was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 9% of 555 
patients; adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in more than one patient were 
colitis (1.4%), autoimmune hepatitis (0.7%), allergic reaction (0.4%), polyneuropathy 
(0.4%), and cardiac failure (0.4%). Adverse reactions leading to interruption of 
SHPEUROL]XPDERFFXUUHGLQRISDWLHQWVWKHPRVWFRPPRQZDVGLDUUKHD
(2.5%). The most common adverse reactions with pembrolizumab vs ipilimumab were 
fatigue (28% vs 28%), diarrhea (26% with pembrolizumab), rash (24% vs 23%), and 
nausea (21% with pembrolizumab). Corresponding incidence rates are listed for 
ipilimumab only for those adverse reactions that occurred at the same or lower rate than 
with pembrolizumab. 
x
In Trial 2, pembrolizumab was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 12% of 357 
SDWLHQWVWKHPRVWFRPPRQZHUHJHQHUDOSK\VLFDOKHDOWKGHWHULRUDWLRQ
asthenia (1%), dyspnea (1%), pneumonitis (1%), and generalized edema (1%). Adverse 
reactions leading to interruption of pembrolizumab occurred in 14% of patients; the most 
FRPPRQZHUHG\VSQHDGLDUUKHDDQGPDFXOR-papular rash (1%). The 
most common adverse reactions with pembrolizumab vs chemotherapy were fatigue 
(43% with pembrolizumab), pruritus (28% vs 8%), rash (24% vs 8%), constipation (22% 
vs 20%), nausea (22% with pembrolizumab), diarrhea (20% vs 20%), and decreased 
appetite (20% with pembrolizumab). Corresponding incidence rates are listed for 


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chemotherapy only for those adverse reactions that occurred at the same or lower rate 
than with pembrolizumab. 
x
No formal pharmacokinetic drug interaction studies have been conducted with 
pembrolizumab. 
x
It is not known whether pembrolizumab is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs 
are excreted in human milk, instruct women to discontinue nursing during treatment with 
pembrolizumab and for 4 months after the final dose. 
x
Safety and effectiveness of pembrolizumab have not been established in pediatric 
patients.
11.1.3 Formulation and preparation
Product Name & Potency
Dosage Form
Pembrolizumab 50 mg
Lyophilized Powder for Injection
Pembrolizumab 100 mg/ 4mL
Solution for Injection
11.1.4 Stability and Storage
x
Clinical supplies must be stored in a secure, limited-access location under the storage 
conditions specified on the label.  
x
Receipt and dispensing of trial medication must be recorded by an authorized person at 
the trial site.
x
Clinical supplies may not be used for any purpose other than that stated in the protocol.
x
The product does not contain a preservative.
x
Store the reconstituted and diluted solution from the pembrolizumab 50 mg vial either: 
o
At room temperature for no more than 6 hours from the time of reconstitution. This 
includes room temperature storage of reconstituted vials, storage of the infusion 
solution in the IV bag, and the duration of infusion.
o
Under refrigeration at 2°C to 8°C (36F to 46F) for no more than 24 hours from the 
time of reconstitution. If refrigerated, allow the diluted solution to come to room 
temperature prior to administration.
x Store the diluted solution from the pembrolizumab 100 mg/4 mL vial either: 


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o
At room temperature for no more than 6 hours from the time of dilution. This 
includes room temperature storage of the infusion solution in the IV bag, and the 
duration of infusion.
o
Under refrigeration at 2°C to 8°C (36F to 46F) for no more than 24 hours from the 
time of dilution. If refrigerated, allow the diluted solution to come to room 
temperature prior to administration.
x Do not freeze.
11.1.5 Administration procedures
Reconstitution of pembrolizumab for Injection (Lyophilized Powder)
x
Pembrolizumab is administered through a 0.2 to 5 micron sterile, nonpyrogenic, low-
protein binding inline or add-on filter. Do not infuse other mediations through the same 
infusion line.
x
Add 2.3 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP by injecting the water along the walls of the 
vial and not directly on the lyophilized powder (resulting concentration 25mg/mL).
x
Slowly swirl the vial. Allow up to 5minutes for the bubbles to clear. Do not shake the vial
x
Preparation for Intravenous Infusion
x
Visually inspect the solution for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. 
The solution is clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow. Discard the vial if 
visible particles are observed.
x
Dilute pembrolizumab injection (solution) or reconstituted lyophilized powder prior to 
intravenous administration.
x
Withdraw the required volume from the vial(s) of pembrolizumab and transfer into an 
intravenous (IV) bag containing 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP or 5%
x
Dextrose Injection, USP. Mix diluted solution by gentle inversion. The final concentration of 
the diluted solution should be between 1mg/mL to 10mg/mL.
x
Discard any unused portion left in the vial.
11.1.6 Incompatibilities
No formal pharmacokinetic drug interaction studies have been conducted with pembrolizumab.
11.1.7 Clinical Supplies Disclosure
This trial is open-label; therefore, the subject, the trial site personnel, the Sponsor and/or 
designee are not blinded to treatment. Drug identity (name, strength) is included in the label text; 
random code/disclosure envelopes or lists are not provided.


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11.1.8 Returns and Reconciliation
The investigator is responsible for keeping accurate records of the clinical supplies received from 
Merck or designee, the amount dispensed to and returned by the subjects and the amount 
remaining at the conclusion of the trial. 
Upon completion or termination of the study, all unused and/or partially used investigational 
product will be destroyed at the site per institutional policy. It is the Investigator’s responsibility
to arrange for disposal of all empty containers, provided that procedures for proper disposal 
have been established according to applicable federal, state, local and institutional guidelines and 
procedures, and provided that appropriate records of disposal are kept.


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12
APPENDIX A: PERFORMANCE STATUS CRITERIA
ECOG Performance Status Scale
Karnofsky Performance Scale
Grade
Descriptions
Percent
Description
0
Normal activity.  Fully active, 
able to carry on all pre-disease 
performance without restriction.
100
Normal, no complaints, no 
evidence of disease.
90
Able to carry on normal activity; 
minor signs or symptoms of 
disease.
1
Symptoms, but ambulatory.  
Restricted in physically strenuous 
activity, but ambulatory and able 
to carry out work of a light or 
sedentary nature (e.g., light 
housework, office work).
80
Normal activity with effort; 
some signs or symptoms of 
disease.
70
Cares for self, unable to carry on 
normal activity or to do active 
work.
2
In bed <50% of the time.  
Ambulatory and capable of all 
self-care, but unable to carry out 
any work activities.  Up and 
about more than 50% of waking 
hours.
60
Requires occasional assistance, 
but is able to care for most of 
his/her needs.
50
Requires considerable assistance 
and frequent medical care.
3
In bed >50% of the time.  
Capable of only limited self-care, 
confined to bed or chair more 
than 50% of waking hours.
40
Disabled, requires special care 
and assistance.
30
Severely disabled, 
hospitalization indicated.  Death 
not imminent.
4
100% bedridden.  Completely 
disabled.  Cannot carry on any 
self-care.  Totally confined to bed 
or chair.
20
Very sick, hospitalization 
indicated. Death not imminent.
10
Moribund, fatal processes 
progressing rapidly.
5
Dead.
0
Dead.


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13 APPENDIX B: INSTRUCTIONS FOR PRE-STUDY AND FOLLOW-UP BLOOD
TESTS
Blood Studies
Blood Tube/Comments
Destination
CBC, with
1 purple top
Clinical Center Lab
differential
Bldg. 10
BUN, Creatinine
1 gold top
Hem/Onc Lab
SGOT, Alk. Phos, 
Bldg. 10
Bilirubin, Albumin  
(chem. 20), TSH
Serum for HIV
1 gold top
Hem/Onc Lab
Antibody
HIV Consent
Bldg. 10
Immunology Assays   
6 10-cc green tops
NCI-Frederick (Leidos)           
2 SST (tiger) top tubes
(1-301-846-5893)
T/B/NK
1 purple top
Clinical Center Lab
(lymphocyte subsets)
Bldg 10


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Hamy A, Pessaux P, Mirallie E, et al. Central neck dissection in the management of 
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Fialkowski E, DeBenedetti M, Moley J. Long-term outcome of reoperations for 
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Kloos RT, Eng C, Evans DB, et al. Medullary thyroid cancer: management guidelines of 
the American Thyroid Association. Thyroid. 2009;19(6):565-612.
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Sherman SI. Advances in chemotherapy of differentiated epithelial and medullary thyroid 
cancers. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2009;94(5):1493-1499.
7.
Shimaoka K, Schoenfeld DA, DeWys WD, Creech RH, DeConti R. A randomized trial of 
doxorubicin versus doxorubicin plus cisplatin in patients with advanced thyroid 
carcinoma. Cancer. 1985;56(9):2155-2160.
8.
Carlomagno F, Vitagliano D, Guida T, et al. ZD6474, an orally available inhibitor of 
KDR tyrosine kinase activity, efficiently blocks oncogenic RET kinases. Cancer Res. 
2002;62(24):7284-7290.
9.
Wells SA, Jr., Gosnell JE, Gagel RF, et al. Vandetanib for the treatment of patients with 
locally advanced or metastatic hereditary medullary thyroid cancer. J Clin Oncol. 
2010;28(5):767-772.
10.
Wells SA, Jr., Robinson BG, Gagel RF, et al. Vandetanib in patients with locally 
advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer: a randomized, double-blind phase III 
trial. J Clin Oncol. 2012;30(2):134-141.
11.
Administration UFaD. FDA approves new treatment for rare form of thyroid cancer. 
2011; 
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm250168.htm.
Accessed July 7, 2012.
12.
Elisei R, Schlumberger MJ, Muller SP, et al. Cabozantinib in progressive medullary 
thyroid cancer. J Clin Oncol. 2013;31(29):3639-3646.
13.
Bilusic M, Heery CR, Arlen PM, et al. Phase I trial of a recombinant yeast-CEA vaccine 
(GI-6207) in adults with metastatic CEA-expressing carcinoma. Cancer immunology, 
immunotherapy : CII. 2014;63(3):225-234.
14.
Pardoll DM. The blockade of immune checkpoints in cancer immunotherapy. Nature 
reviews. Cancer. 2012;12(4):252-264.


Abbreviated Title: Pembrolizumab in MTC
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Galon J, Costes A, Sanchez-Cabo F, et al. Type, density, and location of immune cells 
within human colorectal tumors predict clinical outcome. Science. 2006;313(5795):1960-
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Jochems C, Schlom J. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells and prognosis: the potential link 
between conventional cancer therapy and immunity. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 
2011;236(5):567-579.
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Fu J, Malm IJ, Kadayakkara DK, Levitsky H, Pardoll D, Kim YJ. Preclinical evidence 
that PD1 blockade cooperates with cancer vaccine TEGVAX to elicit regression of 
established tumors. Cancer Res. 2014;74(15):4042-4052.
18.
Antoni R, Caroline RF, Hodi S, et al. Association of response to programmed death 
receptor 1 (PD-1) blockade with pembrolizumab (MK-3475) with an interferon-
inflammatory immune gene signature. J Clin Oncol 33, 2015 (suppl; abstr 3001) 
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Ismailov SI, Piulatova NR. Postoperative calcitonin study in medullary thyroid 
carcinoma. Endocrine-related cancer. 2004;11(2):357-363.
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Robert C, Ribas A, Wolchok JD, et al. Anti-programmed-death-receptor-1 treatment with 
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ICF_001.pdf: 
MEDICAL RECORD 
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY 
• 
Adult Patient or 
• Parent, for Minor Patient 
INSTITUTE: 
National Cancer Institute 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: 
Ravi A. Madan, M.D. 
STUDY TITLE:  
Phase II Trial of Pembrolizumab in Recurrent or Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Cancer 
 
Continuing Review Approved by the IRB on 12/31/18 
Amendment Approved by the IRB on 04/18/18 (D) 
 
 
Date posted to web:  01/03/19 
Standard 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY 
• 
Adult Patient or 
• Parent, for Minor Patient 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent (1) 
 
 
INTRODUCTION 
We invite you to take part in a research study at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 
First, we want you to know that: 
Taking part in NIH research is entirely voluntary.  
You may choose not to take part, or you may withdraw from the study at any time.  In 
either case, you will not lose any benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.  However, 
to receive care at the NIH, you must be taking part in a study or be under evaluation for 
study participation. 
You may receive no benefit from taking part.  The research may give us knowledge that 
may help people in the future. 
Second, some people have personal, religious or ethical beliefs that may limit the kinds of 
medical or research treatments they would want to receive (such as blood transfusions).  If you 
have such beliefs, please discuss them with your NIH doctors or research team before you agree 
to the study. 
Now we will describe this research study.  Before you decide to take part, please take as much 
time as you need to ask any questions and discuss this study with anyone at NIH, or with family, 
friends or your personal physician or other health professional.   
Why is this study being done?  
This is an investigational study of a drug called pembrolizumab (MK-3475).  Pembrolizumab is 
in a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies, which include some relatively new types of 
cancer therapies.  This drug works through its effect on the immune system, and is therefore 
considered an “Immunotherapy”.  The purpose of this clinical research study is to evaluate how 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 2 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
the study drug affects you and if it can offer you clinical benefit. Pembrolizumab has been 
approved to treat melanoma and lung cancer, and may be effective in treating other types tumors. 
Why are you being asked to take part in this study? 
You are being asked to take part in this study because you have been diagnosed with Metastatic 
Medullary Thyroid cancer. 
How many people will take part in this study?  
Approximately 30 people will be enrolled in this study. 
Description of Research Study 
What will happen if you take part in this research study?   
Before you begin the study 
You will need to have the following exams, tests or procedures to find out if you can be in the 
study.  These exams, tests or procedures are part of regular cancer care and may be done even if 
you do not join the study.  However, there are some extra exams, tests and procedures that you 
will need to have if you take part in this study. If you have had some of them recently, they may 
not need to be repeated.   
These tests include: 
• History and physical evaluation including vital signs 
• Routine blood tests 
• Urine tests 
• Pregnancy test (if you are female and can have children) 
• CT scan of neck/chest/abdomen/pelvis or MRI 
• Bone scan 
• Electrocardiogram (EKG) to assess your heart. 
• Hepatitis B and C 
• HIV Testing: As part of this study, we will test you for infection with the human 
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS.  If you are infected with HIV 
you will not be able to participate in this study.  We will tell you what the results mean, 
how to find care, how to avoid infecting others, how we report HIV infection, and the 
importance of informing your partners at possible risk because of your HIV infection. 
 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 3 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
During the study 
Once it has been determined that you are eligible and agree to participate in the study, you will 
be assigned to one of two cohorts (groups) based on your treatment history.  You may also need 
to have some of the tests that were done at screening repeated depending on how much time has 
passed.  Your study team will let you know if any of the above tests need to be repeated. 
 
You will be assigned to Cohort 1 (if you have had previous treatment with an immune 
stimulating therapeutic cancer vaccine) or Cohort 2 (no previous vaccine).   
 
You will receive pembrolizumab as a 30-minute IV infusion every 3 weeks for up to 2 years, as 
long as you are willing to participate in this study, and you tolerate treatment without evidence of 
disease getting worse based on symptoms or follow-up studies.  The infusion can be given in the 
outpatient clinic.  You will be monitored for 30 minutes after the infusion for the first 3 
infusions.  You will be evaluated by a physician, with history, physical exams and standard 
blood tests. Restaging CT and bone scans will be obtained every 3 months or earlier if your 
doctor suspects your cancer get worse.    
 
Research blood samples: 
Research tests will be done on blood taken at various times during your participation in this 
study: at baseline and before pembrolizumab dose on each cycle. Each of these blood draws will 
take about 6-8 tablespoons of blood, which is within the limit that the NIH has set for the amount 
of blood that can be taken for research.  
 
Tissue collection: 
Optional biopsies may be requested at baseline and after treatment has been initiated.  A separate 
consent form will be provided to you at the time of the biopsy for you to grant permission to that 
procedure if you agree to the biopsies. 
When you are finished taking the study drug 
We would like to see you again within 3 to 4 weeks after you have stopped taking the study drug 
in order to perform the following tests: 
• History and physical evaluation including vital signs 
• Standard blood tests including a complete blood count, chemistry panel 
• Research blood will be obtained at baseline, then at 3 month intervals thereafter, with 
possibility of blood collection post-treatment, if feasible.  
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)  
At the end of this study, we would still like to follow you for any late side effects and to see how 
you do on other treatments. We would request that at that time you enroll onto our Long Term 
Follow-up Study 04-C-0274 which the study team can go over with you. 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 4 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
Birth Control 
If you are a woman who is breast feeding or pregnant, you may not take part in the study because 
we don’t know how this medicine would affect your baby or your unborn child. If you are a 
woman who can become pregnant, or are the partner of a woman who can become pregnant, you 
will need to practice an effective form of birth control before starting study treatment, during 
study treatment, and for 4 months after you finish study treatment.  If you think that you or your 
partner is pregnant, you should tell your study doctor or nurse at once.   
Effective forms of birth control include:  
• abstinence  
• intrauterine device (IUD) 
• contraceptive rod implanted into the skin 
• tubal ligation 
• vasectomy 
• combination method (requires use of two of the following): 
o diaphragm with spermicide (cannot be used in conjunction with cervical 
cap/spermicide) 
o cervical cap with spermicide (nulliparous women only)   
o contraceptive sponge (nulliparous women only)  
o male condom or female condom (cannot be used together) 
o hormonal contraceptive: oral contraceptive pill (estrogen/progestin pill or progestin-
only pill), contraceptive skin patch, vaginal contraceptive ring, or subcutaneous 
contraceptive injection 
Risks or Discomforts of Participation 
What side effects or risks can I expect from being in this study? 
Pembrolizumab is a cancer therapy that inhibits (blocks) “immune checkpoints,” and allows the 
immune system to detect and kill tumor cells.  This may result in serious and possibly fatal 
immune-related side effects. These side effects are probably due to activation and growth of 
immune cells (T-cells).  Immune-related side effects have been reported in patients receiving 
pembrolizumab. In clinical trials, most immune-related side effects were reversible and managed 
by stopping pembrolizumab temporarily, administering corticosteroids, and receiving supportive 
care. 
 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 5 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
COMMON, SOME MAY BE SERIOUS   
In 100 people receiving pembrolizumab, more than 20 and up to 100 may have: 
• Tiredness 
 
 
OCCASIONAL, SOME MAY BE SERIOUS   
In 100 people receiving pembrolizumab, from 4 to 20 may have: 
• Anemia which may require blood transfusion 
• Pain 
• Pain and swelling of thyroid 
• Diarrhea, nausea 
• Sores in the mouth which may cause difficulty swallowing 
• Chills, fever 
• Swelling of the body which may cause shortness of breath 
• Infection 
• Loss of appetite 
 
• Damage to the bone which may loss of motion 
• Fluid in the joints 
• Joint stiffness 
• Blisters on the skin, itching, acne, rash, skin changes, hives 
• Swelling and redness of the skin 
• The body’s reaction to the drug can occur during treatment or weeks to months later: 
multiple organs may be involved but primarily bowels, liver, skin, nerves and glands 
that make hormones; symptoms may include diarrhea, rash and numbness/tingling of 
hands and feet 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 6 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
 
RARE, AND SERIOUS 
In 100 people receiving pembrolizumab, 3 or fewer may have: 
• Heart failure which may cause shortness of breath, swelling of ankles, cough or 
tiredness 
• Swelling and redness of the eye 
• Allergic reaction which may cause rash, low blood pressure, wheezing, shortness of 
breath, swelling of the face or throat 
• Reaction during or following a drug infusion which may cause fever, chills, rash 
• Weakness and paralysis 
• Muscle weakness 
• Feeling of "pins and needles" in arms and legs 
• Kidney damage which may require dialysis 
• Severe skin rash with blisters and can involve inside of mouth and other parts of the 
body 
 
There have been additional side effects seen in patients who have participated in trials using 
Pembrolizumab.  Some of these have been serious.  We do not know for certain whether these 
side effects were caused by pembrolizumab.  These additional side effects have included: 
• Damage to the bone marrow (irreversible) which may cause bleeding, may require blood 
transfusions 
• Fluid around heart which can stop the heart from beating 
• Constipation  
• Cough  
• Headache 
• Shortness of breath  
• Vomiting  
• Weight loss 
• Tinnitus 
Other Risks 
The study treatment may involve risks to you that are currently unknown. Your cancer may not 
get better or may become worse while you are in this study. 
 
Risks from X-rays and / or Scans: Radiological testing, such as CT scans, MRIs, X-rays and/or 
radioactive drugs may be used to assess the treatment of your disease at various times during 
therapy. The cumulative radiation exposure from these tests is considered very small and is 
unlikely to adversely affect you or your disease. Because some of these tests require 
administration of contrast you could experience pain, bruising, and/or infection at the site of 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 7 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
injection, or an allergic reaction to the contrast agent. Please notify the investigator if you know 
or suspect you are allergic to contrast dye. 
 
EKG: There are no significant risks or discomforts associated with an EKG. Some patches will 
be adhered to your skin that may cause some reddening or slight itching. 
 
Blood draws: There may be some side effects associated with the procedures for drawing blood 
in this study, but the person drawing your blood will attempt to minimize this discomfort.  Side 
effects include pain and bruising in the area where the needle is inserted, lightheadedness, and 
rarely, fainting. When large amounts of blood are collected, low red blood cell count (anemia) is 
a risk. 
 
Tissue biopsy: The optional biopsy will be performed by physicians specially trained in the 
necessary procedures. We will only ask you to undergo the biopsies if we feel that the tumor can 
be easily accessed and there are no major risks associated with the procedure.  The biopsy 
procedure usually causes only brief discomfort at the site from which the biopsy is taken.  
Rarely, infection or bleeding may occur at the needle site. 
 
The biopsy may be done under CT guidance.  If that is the case, then this research study involves 
exposure to radiation from up to 2 CT scans, at baseline prior to starting treatment and at the end 
of treatment (at 2 years).  This radiation exposure is not required for your medical care and is for 
research purposes only. The amount of radiation you will receive per one CT scan in this study is 
0.77 rem which is below the guideline of 5 rem (or 0.5 rem in children) per year allowed for 
research subjects by the NIH Radiation Safety Committee.  The average person in the United 
States receives a radiation exposure of 0.3 rem per year from natural sources, such as the sun, 
outer space, and the earth's air and soil.  If you would like more information about radiation, 
please ask the investigator for a copy of the pamphlet, An Introduction to Radiation for NIH 
Research Subjects. 
 
While there is no direct evidence that the amount of exposure received from participating in this 
study is harmful, there is indirect evidence it may not be completely safe.  There may be a very 
slight increase in the risk of cancer.  
 
Please tell your doctor if you have had any radiation exposure in the past year, either from other 
research studies or from medical tests or care, so we can make sure that you will not receive too 
much radiation. Radiation exposure includes x-rays taken in radiology departments, cardiac 
catheterization, and fluoroscopy as well as nuclear medicine scans in which radioactive materials 
were injected into your body.  
 
If you are pregnant you will not be permitted to participate in this research study. If you are 
breast feeding and the protocol involves injection of radioactive material, you will not be 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 8 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
permitted to participate.  It is best to avoid radiation exposure to unborn or nursing infants since 
they are more sensitive to radiation than adults.  
Potential Benefits of Participation 
Are there benefits to taking part in this study?  
The aim of this study is to see if this experimental treatment will cause your tumors to shrink.   
We do not know if you will receive personal, medical benefit from taking part in this study.  
These potential benefits could include shrinking of your tumor or lessening of your symptoms, 
such as pain, that are caused by the cancer.  Because there is not much information about the 
drug’s effect on your cancer, we do not know if you will benefit from taking part in this study, 
although the knowledge gained from this study may help others in the future who have cancer.   
Alternative Approaches or Treatments 
What other choices do I have if I do not take part in this study?  
Instead of being in this study, you have these options: 
• Getting treatment or care for your cancer without being in a study 
• Taking part in another study 
• Getting comfort care, also called palliative care.  This type of care helps reduce pain, 
tiredness, appetite problems and other problems caused by the cancer.  It does not treat 
the cancer directly.  Instead, it tries to improve how you feel.  Comfort care tries to keep 
you as active and comfortable as possible. 
Please talk to your doctor about these and other options. 
Stopping Therapy  
Your doctor may decide to stop your therapy for the following reasons: 
• if he/she believes that it is in your best interest 
• if your disease comes back during treatment 
• if you become pregnant 
• if you have side effects from the treatment that your doctor thinks are too severe 
• if new information shows that another treatment would be better for you 
In this case, you will be informed of the reason therapy is being stopped. 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 9 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
You can stop taking part in the study at any time. However, if you decide to stop taking part in 
the study, we would like you to talk to the study doctor and your regular doctor first. 
If you decide at any time to withdraw your consent to participate in the trial, we will not collect 
any additional medical information about you. However, according to FDA guidelines, 
information collected on you up to that point may still be provided to Merck or designated 
representatives. If you withdraw your consent and leave the trial, any samples of yours that have 
been obtained for the study and stored at the NCI can be destroyed upon request. However, any 
samples and data generated from the samples that have already been distributed to other 
researchers or placed in the research databases cannot be recalled and destroyed. 
Research Subject’s Rights 
What are the costs of taking part in this study?  
If you choose to take part in the study, the following will apply, in keeping with the NIH policy: 
• You will receive study treatment at no charge to you. This may include surgery, 
medicines, laboratory testing, x-rays or scans done at the Clinical Center, National 
Institutes of Health (NIH), or arranged for you by the research team to be done outside 
the Clinical Center, NIH if the study related treatment is not available at the NIH.  
• There are limited funds available to cover the cost of some tests and procedures 
performed outside the Clinical Center, NIH.  You may have to pay for these costs if they 
are not covered by your insurance company. 
• Medicines that are not part of the study treatment will not be provided or paid for by the 
Clinical Center, NIH. 
• Once you have completed taking part in the study, medical care will no longer be 
provided by the Clinical Center, NIH. 
Will your medical information be kept private?  
We will do our best to make sure that the personal information in your medical record will be 
kept private.  However, we cannot guarantee total privacy.  Organizations that may look at 
and/or copy your medical records for research, quality assurance, and data analysis include: 
• The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and other government agencies, like the Food and 
Drug Administration (FDA), which are involved in keeping research safe for people. 
• National Cancer Institute Institutional Review Board 
• Qualified representatives from Merck, the pharmaceutical company who produces 
pembrolizumab. 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 10 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
A description of this clinical trial will be available on http://www.Clinicaltrials.gov, as required 
by U.S. Law.  This Web site will not include information that can identify you.  At most the 
Web site will include a summary of the results.  You can search this Web site at any time.  
Certificate of Confidentiality  
To help us protect your privacy, we have obtained a Certificate of Confidentiality. The 
researchers can use this Certificate to legally refuse to disclose information that may identify you 
in any federal, state, or local civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, or other proceedings, for 
example, if there is a court subpoena. The researchers will use the Certificate to resist any 
demands for information that would identify you, except as explained below. 
You should also know that there are several circumstances in which the Certificate does not 
provide coverage. These include when information:  
• will be used for auditing or program evaluation internally by the NIH; or  
• must be disclosed to meet the legal requirements of the federal Food and Drug 
Administration (FDA).  
• is necessary for your medical treatment and you have consented to this disclosure;  
• is for other research.  
In addition, identifiable, sensitive information protected by this Certificate cannot be admissible 
as evidence or used for any purpose in any action, suit, or proceeding without your consent.  
You should understand that a Certificate of Confidentiality does not prevent you or a member of 
your family from voluntarily releasing information about yourself or your involvement in this 
research. If an insurer, employer, or other person obtains your written consent to receive research 
information, then the researchers will not use the Certificate to withhold that information. 
The Certificate of Confidentiality will not protect against the required reporting by hospital staff 
of information on suspected child abuse, reportable communicable diseases, and/or possible 
threat of harm to self or others. 
Conflict of Interest  
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviews NIH staff researchers at least yearly for conflicts 
of interest.  This process is detailed in a Protocol Review Guide.  You may ask your research 
team for a copy of the Protocol Review Guide or for more information.  Members of the research 
team who do not work for NIH are expected to follow these guidelines but they do not need to 
report their personal finances to the NIH. 
 
Members of the research team working on this study may have up to $15,000 of stock in the 
companies that make products used in this study.  This is allowed under federal rules and is not a 
conflict of interest.  


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH 2514-1, Consent to Participate in A Clinical Research Study 
NIH 2514-2, Minor Patient’s Assent to Participate In A Clinical Research Study 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 11 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONTINUATION SHEET for either: 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
NIH-2514-2 (10-84) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
 
Merck is providing the drug for this study to NIH without charge.  No NIH investigator involved 
in this study receives payments or other benefits from Merck.  However, there are some non-NIH 
collaborators on this study who may receive payments or benefits, limited by the rules of their 
workplace. 
Use of Specimens and Data for Future Research 
To advance science, it is helpful for researchers to share information they get from studying 
human samples.  They do this by putting it into one or more scientific databases, where it is 
stored along with information from other studies. A researcher who wants to study the 
information must apply to the database and be approved.  Researchers use specimens and data 
stored in scientific databases to advance science and learn about health and disease.   
 
We plan to keep some of your specimens and data that we collect and use them for future 
research and share them with other researchers. We will not contact you to ask about each of 
these future uses.  These specimens and data will be stripped of identifiers such as name, address 
or account number, so that they may be used for future research on any topic and shared broadly 
for research purposes. Your specimens and data will be used for research purposes only and will 
not benefit you.  It is also possible that the stored specimens and data may never be used.  
Results of research done on your specimens and data will not be available to you or your doctor.  
It might help people who have cancer and other diseases in the future.  
  
If you do not want your stored specimens and data used for future research, please contact us in 
writing and let us know that you do not want us to use your specimens and/or data.  Then any 
specimens that have not already been used or shared will be destroyed and your data will not be 
used for future research. However, it may not be possible to withdraw or delete materials or data 
once they have been shared with other researchers. 
 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY 
• 
Adult Patient or 
• Parent, for Minor Patient 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 12 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH 
STUDY (Continuation Sheet) 
• 
Adult Patient or 
• Parent, for Minor Patient 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
 
 
OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION 
1. 
Confidentiality.  When results of an NIH research study are reported in medical journals 
or at scientific meetings, the people who take part are not named and identified.  In most cases, 
the NIH will not release any information about your research involvement without your written 
permission.  However, if you sign a release of information form, for example, for an insurance 
company, the NIH will give the insurance company information from your medical record.  This 
information might affect (either favorably or unfavorably) the willingness of the insurance 
company to sell you insurance. 
The Federal Privacy Act protects the confidentiality of your NIH medical records.  However, you 
should know that the Act allows release of some information from your medical record without 
your permission, for example, if it is required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 
members of Congress, law enforcement officials, or authorized hospital accreditation 
organizations. 
2. 
Policy Regarding Research-Related Injuries.  The Clinical Center will provide short-
term medical care for any injury resulting from your participation in research here.  In general, 
no long-term medical care or financial compensation for research-related injuries will be 
provided by the National Institutes of Health, the Clinical Center, or the Federal Government.  
However, you have the right to pursue legal remedy if you believe that your injury justifies such 
action. 
3. 
Payments.  The amount of payment to research volunteers is guided by the National 
Institutes of Health policies.  In general, patients are not paid for taking part in research studies at 
the National Institutes of Health.  Reimbursement of travel and subsistence will be offered 
consistent with NIH guidelines. 
4. 
Problems or Questions.  If you have any problems or questions about this study, or 
about your rights as a research participant, or about any research-related injury, contact the 
Principal Investigator, Ravi Madan, M.D., Building 10, Room 13N240, Telephone: 301-480-
7168. You may also call the Clinical Center Patient Representative at 301-496-2626. If you have 
any questions about the use of your specimens or data for future research studies, you may also 
contact the Office of the Clinical Director, Telephone:  240-760-6070.  
5. 
Consent Document.  Please keep a copy of this document in case you want to read it 
again. 


MEDICAL RECORD 
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY 
• 
Adult Patient or 
• Parent, for Minor Patient 
STUDY NUMBER: 
17-C-0061 
CONTINUATION: page 13 of 13 pages 
 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION 
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH 
STUDY (Continuation Sheet) 
• 
Adult Patient or 
• Parent, for Minor Patient 
NIH-2514-1 (07-09) 
P.A.:  09-25-0099 
 
File in Section 4:  Protocol Consent 
 
 
 
 
COMPLETE APPROPRIATE ITEM(S) BELOW: 
A. Adult Patient’s Consent 
B. Parent’s Permission for Minor Patient. 
I have read the explanation about this study 
and have been given the opportunity to discuss 
it and to ask questions.  I hereby consent to 
take part in this study. 
I have read the explanation about this study 
and have been given the opportunity to discuss 
it and to ask questions.  I hereby give 
permission for my child to take part in this 
study.   
(Attach NIH 2514-2, Minor’s Assent, if 
applicable.) 
 
  
  
 
 
 
Signature of Adult Patient/ 
Legal Representative 
Date 
Signature of Parent(s)/ Guardian Date 
 
 
Print Name 
 
 
Print Name 
C. Child’s Verbal Assent (If Applicable) 
The information in the above consent was described to my child and my child agrees to 
participate in the study. 
 
  
  
 
Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian 
Date 
Print Name 
THIS CONSENT DOCUMENT HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR USE  
FROM DECEMBER 31, 2018 THROUGH JUNE 18, 2019.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signature of Investigator 
Date 
Signature of Witness 
Date 
 
 
Print Name 
 
 
Print Name