Developing blood tests for diagnosing thyroid cancer

Isolation and Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles in Patients With Thyroid Nodules and Thyroid Cancer

Observational Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center · NCT04742608

This study is testing a new blood test to help doctors tell if thyroid nodules are cancerous or not, using samples from patients with suspicious nodules or thyroid cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorJonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, California)
Trial IDNCT04742608 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to improve cancer diagnosis by analyzing blood and tissue samples from patients with suspicious thyroid nodules or thyroid cancer. Researchers will evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of molecular profiles from thyroid-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) to predict thyroid cancer. The study will also assess the quantity of EVs at different stages of cancer and how this quantity changes in response to treatment. By using less invasive methods than traditional biopsies, the study seeks to differentiate between non-cancerous tumors and thyroid cancer, as well as identify high-risk mutations for better treatment guidance.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled for thyroid surgery due to suspected thyroid cancer or indeterminate thyroid nodules.

Not a fit: Patients with concurrent malignancies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to less invasive and more accurate cancer diagnostics for patients with thyroid issues.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using liquid biopsy techniques for cancer diagnostics, suggesting a potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 18 and older
* Consented for thyroid surgery for thyroid cancer or indeterminate thyroid nodule

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with concurrent malignancy

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California

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 Thyroid Gland CarcinomaThyroid Gland Nodule
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.