MR Elastography for Intracranial Hypertension
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores new methods to detect increased pressure inside the skull, known as intracranial hypertension. It focuses on using MR elastography, which researchers might compare to other noninvasive methods like special eye scans or brain imaging. Participants will undergo various procedures, including standard imaging and possibly a lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap). Individuals with conditions like papilledema (swelling of the optic nerve) due to high brain pressure, as well as those without this issue, might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance diagnostic techniques for intracranial hypertension.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that MR elastography is safe for detecting intracranial hypertension?
Research has shown that MR elastography is a safe and noninvasive method. Studies have found that patients tolerate it well. This technique uses imaging to assess tissue stiffness, aiding in diagnosis without surgery. No major problems have been reported from MR elastography, making it a promising imaging choice.
Lumbar punctures, by contrast, are a common procedure for collecting fluid from around the spine for testing. They are generally safe, though some people may experience temporary side effects like headaches or back pain. Serious issues are rare.
In summary, both MR elastography and lumbar punctures are considered safe. MR elastography is noninvasive and well tolerated.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about MR elastography for intracranial hypertension because it offers a new, non-invasive way to evaluate brain pressure and tissue stiffness that could complement or even reduce the need for more invasive procedures like lumbar punctures. Unlike traditional methods that often rely on measuring cerebrospinal fluid pressure directly, MR elastography uses magnetic resonance imaging to visualize the mechanical properties of brain tissue. This could provide a safer, more comfortable experience for patients while offering detailed insights into changes within the brain that are related to increased intracranial pressure. The potential to gather comprehensive data without invasive techniques is a promising advancement in managing and understanding intracranial hypertension.
What evidence suggests that MR elastography is effective for detecting raised intracranial pressure?
Research shows that MR elastography (MRE), a method used in this trial, can measure brain tissue stiffness, potentially aiding in assessing skull pressure. Studies have found that MRE is non-invasive, providing crucial details about brain stiffness without surgery or body entry. This information might indicate changes in skull pressure. MRE offers a less intrusive alternative to direct pressure measurement. Previous research successfully used MRE to measure both overall and specific brain stiffness. In this trial, MRE is evaluated as a promising alternative to more invasive methods like lumbar punctures for assessing intracranial pressure.36789
Who Is on the Research Team?
John J Chen, M.D., Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with conditions like idiopathic intracranial hypertension or obstructive hydrocephalus, which cause increased pressure inside the skull. It's also for those without such pressure issues to serve as a comparison group. People can't join if they're under 18, pregnant, or have conditions that make MR imaging unsafe for them.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants undergo MR elastography, MRI, OCT imaging, and optic nerve B-scan ultrasound to establish baseline measurements
Intervention
Participants may receive interventions such as lumbar punctures, medications, or surgical interventions to lower intracranial pressure
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in brain stiffness and other measurements after interventions
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Lumbar puncture
- MR elastography
- MRI structural brain imaging
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging
- Optic nerve B-scan ultrasound
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Collaborator