Detecting pancreatic cancer early using biomarker tests

Early Detection of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) Using a Panel of Biomarkers (UroPanc)

Queen Mary University of London · NCT04449406

This study is testing if new urine and blood tests can help find pancreatic cancer earlier in people who have symptoms or are at risk.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment3500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorQueen Mary University of London (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, immunotherapy
Locations4 sites (Liverpool and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04449406 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to develop an accurate diagnostic method for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) by analyzing urine and blood samples from both symptomatic patients and asymptomatic individuals at risk. The research focuses on a panel of urinary biomarkers (LYVE1, REG1B, TFF1) and the PancRISK score, in conjunction with plasma CA19-9 levels. The collected samples will be compared against imaging and histopathology data to create a predictive model for earlier detection of PDAC. The study seeks to improve diagnostic accuracy and potentially enhance early intervention strategies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include symptomatic individuals with suspected pancreatic diseases and asymptomatic individuals identified through the EUROPAC registry.

Not a fit: Patients who have received treatment for any malignancy other than basal cell carcinoma within the last five years may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of pancreatic cancer, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored biomarker panels for cancer detection, showing promise, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria (Symptomatic patients):

* Able and willing to give informed consent
* ≥18 years old
* Suspected pancreatic diseases with symptoms including, but not limited to, diarrhoea, back pain, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation or new onset diabetes

Exclusion criteria (Symptomatic patients):

* Current or prior treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical resection, biological therapy, and immunotherapy) for any malignancy other than basal cell carcinoma within 5 years of enrolment.

Asymptomatic participants will be identified through the EUROPAC registry and will fulfil EUROPAC's eligibility criteria.

Where this trial is running

Liverpool 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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma, Biomarker, PDAC, Pancreatic cancer, CA19-9, Urine

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.