A breath test to detect liver cancer and monitor liver health

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to develop a non-invasive breath test that analyzes volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath to detect liver cancer earlier and monitor liver conditions such as cirrhosis. Participants will provide a breath sample after fasting for six hours and answer health-related questions, with the entire appointment lasting about one hour at an NHS hospital. The study focuses on adults with liver cancer, cirrhosis, or specific gastrointestinal symptoms but normal liver scans.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Males and females
* Adult participants ≥ 18 years old
* Participants with either:

  1. Histologically or radiologically-confirmed\* hepatocellular carcinoma or cholangiocarcinoma (participants with liver cancer)
  2. Liver cirrhosis, confirmed on imaging or histology from biopsy (participants with benign liver disorders)
  3. Primary sclerosing cholangitis, confirmed on MRCP/ERCP or histology from biopsy (participants with benign liver disorders)
  4. Non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms, but a radiologically-normal liver (healthy controls)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active infection, or receiving immunosuppressive medications, within the preceding eight weeks
* History of another cancer within the previous five years
* Previous liver resection
* Already received chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery for their liver cancer
* Comorbidities preventing breath collection
* Pregnant women (checked verbally with participant).
* Unable to provide informed written consent

Where it's running

• Imperial College London
  London, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: George Hanna — Imperial College London
• Study coordinator: Georgios Karagiannidis, MBBS(Hon)
• Email: vocal-study@imperial.ac.uk
• Phone: +02075943396

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.