DaTSCAN Imaging for Neurodegenerative Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how well a special brain scan, called DaTscan, can help understand various brain conditions like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and REM sleep behavior disorder. The scan uses an injection of I-123 Ioflupane solution and a special imaging technique called single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to provide detailed pictures of brain activity. The researchers aim to determine if this scan can improve diagnosis and treatment plans for these neurodegenerative conditions. Suitable participants have a diagnosed condition like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, or REM sleep disorder and are on a stable medication regimen. As a Phase 4 trial, this research focuses on understanding how the already FDA-approved DaTscan can benefit more patients.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that your medication regimen has been stable for the previous four weeks, and you must not be taking certain medications that could affect the DaTscan results. It's best to discuss your current medications with the study team to see if any changes are needed.
What is the safety track record for these treatments?
Research has shown that Ioflupane I-123, used in DaTscan, is generally safe. Safety tests did not identify any special risks. A review of ten clinical trials and 13 years of post-approval use found it to be well-tolerated.
SPECT scans, part of the DaTscan process, also have a good safety record. Most people do not experience major side effects. Some may encounter minor issues like bleeding or pain at the injection site, but these are rare.
Overall, both DaTscan and SPECT scans are considered safe based on available evidence.12345Why are researchers enthusiastic about this study treatment?
Researchers are excited about DaTSCAN imaging because it offers a new way to visualize brain changes linked to neurodegenerative diseases. Unlike traditional methods that focus on symptoms or cognitive tests, DaTSCAN uses the I-123 Ioflupane solution to target dopamine transporters, giving a clearer picture of what's happening in the brain. This SPECT scan technique could potentially help doctors differentiate between conditions like Parkinson's Disease, Essential Tremor, and Alzheimer's Disease more accurately and earlier in the disease process. Early and precise diagnosis can lead to better tailored treatments for patients, which is why this trial is generating so much interest.
What evidence suggests that DaTscan imaging could be effective for neurodegenerative diseases?
Research has shown that DaTscan, which uses a special imaging agent called I-123 Ioflupane in SPECT scans, aids in diagnosing Parkinson's disease by highlighting changes in the brain's dopamine system. In this trial, participants with Parkinson's disease will undergo this imaging. Studies have also found it useful for diagnosing dementia with Lewy bodies, making it easier to distinguish from Alzheimer's disease. Participants with these conditions will also be evaluated using DaTscan. In cases of movement disorders or dementia, I-123 Ioflupane imaging improves diagnostic accuracy. This imaging technology reveals the brain areas affected by these conditions, helping doctors make more precise diagnoses. While data is limited for some conditions like mild cognitive impairment and corticobasal degeneration, DaTscan has a proven track record for Parkinson's and similar diseases. Participants with these conditions will also be part of this trial to further evaluate DaTscan's effectiveness.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Bradley Boeve, MD
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 40-90 with conditions like Parkinson's, various dementias, or mild cognitive impairment. Participants need a Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) score over 10 and can't be on certain meds that affect the test results. Those with dementia must have a caregiver present regularly.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
DaTscan Imaging
Participants undergo DaTscan imaging to assess dopaminergic neuron terminals in the striatum
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after DaTscan imaging
Long-term Follow-up
A subset of subjects will undergo a second DaTscan at least 1 year after the initial scan to assess changes over time
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- I-123 Ioflupane solution injection
- Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor