Tumor Pressure and Stiffness Measurement for Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to evaluate how well two tools measure pressure and stiffness inside tumors for patients with solid tumors undergoing a biopsy. The Millar Mikro-tip catheter measures pressure, while shear wave elastography (similar to an ultrasound) assesses stiffness. The goal is to determine if pressure and stiffness correlate with fibrosis, which involves the thickening and scarring of tissue. Patients may qualify if they have a solid tumor, require a biopsy, and can provide consent. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance future diagnostic techniques.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that these measurement techniques are safe for assessing tumor pressure and stiffness?
Research has shown that shear wave elastography and measuring tumor interstitial fluid pressure are generally safe techniques. Studies have found that shear wave elastography, which uses sound waves to assess tissue stiffness, is well-tolerated. It helps doctors distinguish between non-cancerous and cancerous breast lumps without causing harm.
Measuring tumor interstitial fluid pressure primarily monitors tumor conditions and does not involve treatment. This method measures the pressure inside a tumor, which is typically higher than in normal tissues. Current research focuses on the effectiveness of these measurements rather than any harmful side effects.
Overall, both methods are non-invasive and designed to safely gather information about tumors.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it offers a new way to assess tumors by directly measuring tumor stiffness and pressure. Unlike traditional imaging methods, this approach uses a Millar Mikro-tip catheter and shear wave elastography to provide real-time data on tumor characteristics. This could lead to more precise and personalized treatment plans by better understanding the tumor's physical properties, potentially improving patient outcomes.
What evidence suggests that these measurement techniques are effective for assessing tumor pressure and stiffness?
Research has shown that shear wave elastography, which participants in this trial will undergo, effectively measures tumor stiffness. Studies have found that this stiffness relates to low oxygen levels in the tumor and other important cancer indicators, making it a useful tool for better understanding tumors.
Similarly, participants in this trial will have their tumor interstitial fluid pressure measured. This measurement is important for predicting cancer progression and treatment response. High pressure inside a tumor often links to worse outcomes and lower survival rates. This measurement can help doctors make better treatment decisions and understand tumor behavior more accurately.46789Who Is on the Research Team?
Steven Y Huang
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients with solid organ tumors (not including bone) who are scheduled for a biopsy at MD Anderson and can give informed consent. It's not open to pregnant women or those with tumors smaller than 1.5 cm or larger than 5 cm for the first assessment, and less than 1 cm for the second.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Biopsy and Measurement
Patients undergo stiffness assessment of the tumor with shear wave elastography and pressure measurements using a Millar Mikro-tip catheter before and after the biopsy is collected
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the procedure
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Shear Wave Elastography
- Tumor Interstitial Fluid Pressure Measurement
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator