AI model for diagnosing lymph node metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Development and Validation of a Deep Learning Model for Diagnosing Lymph Node Metastasis in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Using Histologic Whole Slide Images and Time-dependent Magnetic Resonance Images

Observational Sun Yat-sen University · NCT06829147

This study is testing a new AI tool that helps doctors diagnose if nasopharyngeal carcinoma has spread to lymph nodes by looking at MRI images before and after chemotherapy.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorSun Yat-sen University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Guangzhou, Guangdong)
Trial IDNCT06829147 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study develops an artificial intelligence model to assist in diagnosing lymph node metastasis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The model utilizes MRI images of the lymph nodes and surrounding areas, analyzing features before and after chemotherapy to track changes. It aims to automatically identify lymph nodes and predict the likelihood of metastasis based on both MRI and pathological data. The approach combines advanced imaging techniques with AI to enhance diagnostic accuracy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with pathologically confirmed nasopharyngeal carcinoma who have undergone initial MRI and PET/CT scans.

Not a fit: Patients who have received cervical lymph node radiotherapy or have other concurrent malignant tumors may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this AI model could significantly improve the accuracy of diagnosing lymph node metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, leading to better treatment decisions.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies utilizing AI for diagnostic purposes in oncology have shown promising results, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. The primary lesion was pathologically confirmed as nasopharyngeal carcinoma (WHO classification is I, II and III);
2. MRI scan was performed at the initial diagnosis (before anti-tumor treatment), and transverse and coronal MRI images before treatment were available, including T1-weighted, T2-weighted and T1-enhanced scanning sequences.
3. PET/CT scan was performed at the initial diagnosis (before anti-tumor treatment)
4. When MRI and PET/CT were inconsistent in judging the benign or malignant nature of lymph nodes, the patient agreed to undergo cervical lymph node puncture and pathological examination.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. The patient has undergone cervical lymph node radiotherapy for any reason
2. Combined with other malignant tumors

Where this trial is running

Guangzhou, Guangdong

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Nasopharyngeal CancinomaLymph Node MetastasisNasopharyngeal carcinomaCervical lymph node metastasisMRIpathologyArtificial Intelligence Diagnostic Model
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.