Comparing ultrasound and MRI for liver cancer detection
Contrast Ultrasound vs. Abbreviated MRI for Detection of HCC in Patients With Indeterminate Liver Nodules
This study is trying to see if a special ultrasound or a quicker MRI is better at finding early liver cancer in people with uncertain liver nodules.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Ann Arbor, Michigan and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06184152 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and abbreviated MRI (AMRI) in detecting early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with indeterminate liver nodules. Participants will undergo both imaging techniques every 3-6 months for up to 24 months, allowing for timely monitoring of any changes in their liver condition. The goal is to determine which imaging method provides better early detection of HCC in this patient population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with Child A or B cirrhosis and at least one indeterminate liver nodule without HCC at baseline.
Not a fit: Patients who have undergone liver transplantation, have a history of HCC, or have significant comorbidities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection of liver cancer, potentially enhancing treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using imaging techniques for liver cancer detection, but this specific comparison of CEUS and AMRI is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Child A or B cirrhosis from any etiology with at least one ILN on 4-phase CT, contrast- enhanced MRI, or contrast enhanced US but without HCC at baseline. * Adults 18 years old and above Exclusion Criteria: * Patients post liver transplantation * Patients with concurrent or prior HCC (LR-5 or biopsy proven) * other liver cancer including cholangiocarcinoma * Patients with any active extra-hepatic malignancy * Patients with significant comorbidity and limited life expectancy, e.g., stage D congestive heart failure, in whom surveillance is not warranted are also excluded given unlikely clinical benefit * Patients with contraindication to contrast-enhanced MRI or CEUS, including implanted medical devices that are considered MR unsafe and severe claustrophobia
Where this trial is running
Ann Arbor, Michigan and 1 other locations
- University of Michigan — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (Recruiting)
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Lisa Quirk, MS/MPH
- Email: lisa.quirk@utsouthwestern.edu
- Phone: 214-645-6179
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.