Improving diagnosis of thyroid nodules using advanced imaging techniques.
Clinical Validation of Metabolic Markers Detected by Mass Spectrometry Imaging for Diagnosis of Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsies
This study is testing a new way to improve the diagnosis of thyroid nodules using advanced imaging techniques, which could help patients avoid unnecessary repeat biopsies and surgeries by providing clearer results.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099955 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the accuracy of diagnosing thyroid nodules through the use of mass spectrometry imaging. By analyzing metabolic markers in fine needle aspiration biopsies, the study aims to reduce the number of indeterminate diagnoses that currently affect about 20% of patients. The approach seeks to minimize unnecessary repeat biopsies and invasive surgeries, which can lead to significant complications and costs. Patients will benefit from a more reliable diagnostic method that could spare them from unnecessary procedures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with suspicious thyroid nodules who are at risk for thyroid cancer and have received indeterminate results from fine needle aspiration biopsies.
Not a fit: Patients with clearly benign thyroid nodules or those who have already undergone definitive treatment for thyroid cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses of thyroid nodules, reducing unnecessary surgeries and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for cancer diagnosis, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suliburk, James — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Suliburk, James
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.