Imaging Techniques for Cancer Detection
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two imaging methods to determine which better detects cancer spread in the body. It compares a combined PET/MRI scan (Positron Emission Tomography with Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to a newer MRI technique called diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). People with metastatic cancer, especially those with a PET scan planned within two months, are ideal candidates. The goal is to enhance cancer spread detection, aiding in treatment management. As an unphased trial, this study allows patients to contribute to advancements in cancer detection technology.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial team or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that these imaging techniques are safe for cancer detection?
Research has shown that both imaging techniques under study, PET/MRI and WB-MRI-DWI, are generally safe for people.
For PET/MRI, studies have found that this method is commonly used in cancer care. It involves a tiny amount of radioactive material to help doctors see how tissues and organs function. The amount used is very low and considered safe. However, some people might feel warm or notice a metallic taste during the scan.
WB-MRI-DWI is another imaging method that is safe and does not use any radiation. It is often used to assess how cancer spreads and responds to treatment. This method is well-tolerated, with no known serious side effects. Some people might find it a bit uncomfortable to stay still during the scan.
Overall, both PET/MRI and WB-MRI-DWI are considered safe for most people, with minimal risks involved.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these imaging techniques because they promise more precise cancer detection compared to existing methods. The combination of PET with MRI (PET/MRI) offers a unique advantage by providing both metabolic and anatomical information, which can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Whole Body MRI with Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (WB-MRI-DWI) enhances the detection of cancer spread throughout the body without the need for radiation. Together, these advanced imaging methods could significantly improve how we pinpoint cancer, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes.
What evidence suggests that these imaging techniques are effective for cancer detection?
This trial will compare the effectiveness of different imaging techniques for cancer detection. Research has shown that PET/MRI, one of the imaging methods tested in this trial, is a powerful tool for finding cancer. It can identify cancerous areas more effectively than some other imaging methods. Studies have found that PET/MRI often surpasses PET/CT in assessing the size and spread of tumors.
Similarly, WB-MRI-DWI, another imaging method under study, is highly effective for detecting cancer throughout the body. It accurately identifies both those with and without the disease, often exceeding 94% accuracy.
Both PET/MRI and WB-MRI-DWI are strong options for cancer imaging, aiding doctors in assessing the extent of cancer spread and its response to treatment.678910Who Is on the Research Team?
Thomas A. Hope, MD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with known metastatic cancer. The details of the eligibility criteria are not provided, so it's important to contact the study organizers for specific inclusion and exclusion requirements.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Imaging
Participants will be imaged at a single timepoint using whole body DWI concurrent with FDG PET/MRI
Optional Imaging
Participants may obtain an optional second FDG PET/MRI with DWI within 6 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored through a medical records review for up to two years
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Positron Emission Tomography combined with Magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI)
- Whole Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging with Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (WB-MRI-DWI)
Trial Overview
The trial is evaluating two imaging techniques in patients with metastatic cancer: Whole Body MRI with Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (WB-MRI-DWI) versus PET/MRI using Fluorodeoxyglucose F18. It aims to see which method is better at detecting cancer spread.
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Participants will receive 5 to 10 Megabecquerel (MBq) +/- 10% of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose as an intravenous injection and undergo a FDG PET/MRI scan that will extend from the vertex to the mid-thighs. Imaging will be performed from vertex to mid-thighs using standard protocol. Participants may also obtain an optional second FDG PET/MRI with DWI within 6 months.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Francisco
Lead Sponsor
Society of Abdominal Radiology
Collaborator
GE Healthcare
Industry Sponsor
Fotis Vlachos
GE Healthcare
Chief Marketing Officer since 2024
PhD in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Massachusetts, MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
Peter J. Arduini
GE Healthcare
Chief Executive Officer since 2022
MBA from Northwestern University, BSc in Marketing from Susquehanna University
Society of Abdominal Radiology
Collaborator
Citations
Positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic ...
Conclusions: Studies demonstrated that PET and MRI have lower sensitivity and specificity than SLNB and 4-NS but are associated with fewer adverse events.
PET/MRI Versus PET/CT for Whole-Body Staging
Conclusion: PET/MRI facilitates staging comparable to that of PET/CT and improves lesion detectability in selected cancers, potentially helping ...
PET/MRI in Oncological Imaging: State of the Art - PMC
Combined positron emission tomography with magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) is a promising new modality which may replace PET/CT in selected cancer ...
Positron Emission Tomography–Magnetic Resonance ...
Nearly half of the articles (5 out of 12) concluded that PET/MRI is superior to PET, MRI, and PET/CT imaging in relation to defining malignancies' size. Six ...
Positron Emission Tomography/Magnetic Resonance ...
Developments in WB-MRI techniques indicate that it compares favourably with 18F-FDG-PET for detection of distant metastases [64]. PET-MRI provides at least ...
Positron emission tomography scan
PET scans must be interpreted carefully because noncancerous conditions can look like cancer. Also, some cancers do not appear on PET scans.
PET Scanning - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
PET scanning is an imaging technique widely used in oncology. This technique uses radiotracers to measure various metabolic processes in the body.
PET/CT - Positron Emission Tomography/Computed ...
Current and accurate information for patients about PET/CT. Learn what you might experience, how to prepare for the exam, benefits, risks and much more.
Management and Organization of Positron Emission ...
The decision to locate the PET/MRI system in the newly built Seidman Cancer Center provided the opportunity to plan for and achieve the required MRI safety ...
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) - Medical Clinical ...
Aetna considers positron emission tomography (PET) medically necessary for the following cardiac indications: Evaluation of Coronary Artery Disease.
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