Comparing Dual-Energy CT and MRI for Neck Infections

Dual-Energy Computed Tomography (DECT) in Acute Neck Infections: Comparison With Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (ANI-DECT)

Not applicable Interventional Turku University Hospital · NCT05303922

This study is testing whether a new type of CT scan can diagnose neck infections as well as or better than MRI in people who might have these infections.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorTurku University Hospital Government
Locations1 site (Turku)
Trial IDNCT05303922 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This prospective study aims to compare the effectiveness of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing acute neck infections. Fifty patients suspected of having a neck infection will undergo both imaging modalities, which will be evaluated for their ability to depict edema, inflammation, and abscess characteristics. The hypothesis is that DECT will perform comparably to MRI and better than traditional single-energy CT. This research seeks to provide valuable insights into DECT's diagnostic capabilities in emergency settings.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are suspected of having an acute neck infection.

Not a fit: Patients with severe kidney dysfunction, a history of serious reactions to contrast agents, or incompatible metallic objects in their body may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic accuracy and faster imaging for patients with acute neck infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that MRI is superior to traditional CT for neck infections, but the effectiveness of DECT in this context is still being evaluated.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 18 years
* Suspicion of acute neck infection as deemed by the referring physician

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of a serious adverse reaction to intravenous iodine- or gadolinium-based contrast agent
* Severe kidney dysfunction (eGFR \< 30 mL/min/1.73m2)
* Foreign metallic objects incompatible with MRI in the body
* Inability to give informed consent, as deemed by study physician
* Inability to follow study instructions

Where this trial is running

Turku

Study contacts

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 Neck AbscessComputed tomographyMagnetic resonance imaging
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.