Screening for pancreatic cancer in individuals with specific genetic mutations

Pilot Study of Pancreatic Cancer Screening

Observational University of California, San Francisco · NCT05058846

This study is testing how often routine scans find problems in people with certain genetic mutations linked to breast cancer to see if regular check-ups can help catch pancreatic cancer early.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, San Francisco Academic / other
Locations1 site (San Francisco, California)
Trial IDNCT05058846 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the frequency of abnormal findings from routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in individuals with genetic mutations associated with breast cancer, specifically BRCA, ATM, and PALB2. Participants will be divided into two groups based on their family history of pancreatic cancer, with one group undergoing annual imaging and the other completing questionnaires and providing biospecimens over a 10-year period. The study aims to assess the rates of high-grade pancreatic neoplasia precursors and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, as well as to explore participants' attitudes towards screening.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 50 and older with specific genetic mutations and no strong family history of pancreatic cancer, or those aged 18 and older with a strong family history of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with prior or active pancreatic cancer or those who are pregnant will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance early detection and screening strategies for pancreatic cancer in high-risk individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using genetic screening for early detection of pancreatic cancer, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Ability to provide consent and willing, and able to comply with study procedures Ability to read and speak English

GROUP I:

* Documentation of pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline BRCA 1 and 2, ATM or PALB2 germline genetic mutation
* No strong family history of pancreatic cancer (defined as having \>= 1 first-degree or second-degree relative with a history of pancreatic cancer)
* Age \>= 50 years old at time of consent.

GROUP II:

* Documentation of pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline BRCA 1 and 2, ATM, or PALB2 germline genetic mutation
* Has strong family history of pancreatic cancer (defined as having \>= 1 first-degree or second-degree relative with a history of pancreatic cancer)
* Age \>= 18 years old at time of consent (screening generally begins 10 years prior to the earliest pancreatic cancer in the family)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior or active pancreatic cancer.
* Pregnant women are excluded from this study because effects of an MRI on developing fetus is unknown.

Where this trial is running

San Francisco, 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 Pancreatic Carcinoma
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.