Evaluating screening methods for pancreatic cancer in high-risk patients

Preliminary Evaluation of Screening for Pancreatic Cancer in Patients With Inherited Genetic Risk

Observational Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine · NCT02478892

This study is trying to see if special imaging tests like endoscopic ultrasound and MRI can help find pancreatic cancer earlier in people with certain genetic risks.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAbramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine Academic / other
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT02478892 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the effectiveness of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and MRI in detecting pancreatic lesions in patients with inherited genetic mutations, specifically BRCA1/2, ATM, or PALB2. By focusing on high-risk individuals, the study seeks to identify preneoplastic and neoplastic changes early, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. Participants will undergo imaging procedures and provide blood samples for further research. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection in improving survival rates for pancreatic cancer.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 18 and older with documented BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, or PALB2 mutations, or those with a family history of pancreatic cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without the specified genetic mutations or those who are pregnant will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection of pancreatic cancer in high-risk patients, improving treatment options and survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for EUS in diagnosing pancreatic cancer, indicating that this approach may be effective in high-risk populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* Age \>= 18
* Documented germline pathogenic or likely pathogenic BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, or PALB2 mutation
* If no history of PDAC in a first or second degree relative, age \>= 50
* If there is a history of PDAC in a first or second degree relative, minimum age of eligibility is 10 years younger than the age of onset of the youngest relative with pancreatic cancer

Exclusion Criteria

• Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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 Pancreatic Cancerhigh riskspecifically those with BRCA1/2 mutations
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.