Detecting brain metastasis in colorectal cancer patients using MRI

Dépistage Des métastases cérébrales Par IRM Chez Les Patients Avec un adénocarcinome Colorectal métastatique

Not applicable Interventional Poitiers University Hospital · NCT03694938

This study tests if regular MRI scans can help find brain tumors early in colorectal cancer patients who already have cancer spread to other parts of their body.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorPoitiers University Hospital Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Amiens and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03694938 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to prospectively assess the incidence of brain metastases in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer through systematic annual screening using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By identifying brain metastases early, the study seeks to improve patient management and treatment outcomes. Participants will be patients with confirmed colorectal adenocarcinoma who have been diagnosed with metastases within the last six months and are indicated for oncologic treatment. The study will exclude patients with contraindications for MRI and those with recent diagnoses of other cancers.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with histologically confirmed metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma diagnosed within the last six months.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for MRI or those diagnosed with other cancers in the last three years may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection of brain metastases in colorectal cancer patients, potentially improving treatment options and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using MRI for screening in this context is established, the specific focus on annual screening for brain metastases in this patient population is less common and may provide novel insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with histologically proven colorectal adenocarcinoma
* Metastases from colorectal cancer diagnosed since less than 6 months
* Indication of an oncologic treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient with contraindication for MRI
* Diagnosis of cancer other than colorectal cancer in the last three years, except in situ cancers, basal-cell skin cancer or squamous-cell skin cancer, and other cancer with low risk of brain dissemination according to the investigator
* Pregnant or breastfeeding women, women of childbearing potential without effective contraception

Where this trial is running

Amiens and 3 other locations

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 Metastatic Colon CancerBrain metastasisMagnetic 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.