Screening for tumors in patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease

An International Collaborative Study: Screening for Endolymphatic Sac Tumours (ELSTs) in Von Hippel-Lindau (vHL) Patients

University of Copenhagen · NCT02420067

This study is testing the best ways to find small tumors in the ears of people with von Hippel-Lindau disease to help catch them early and prevent hearing loss.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment380 (estimated)
Ages15 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Copenhagen (other)
Locations1 site (Copenhagen, Copenhagen N)
Trial IDNCT02420067 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the best methods for screening endolymphatic sac tumors (ELSTs) in patients with von Hippel-Lindau (vHL) disease to enable early diagnosis and prevent hearing loss. It involves conducting audiological examinations and MRI scans of the inner ear in vHL patients, regardless of whether they exhibit symptoms. The goal is to identify tumors while they are still small, as early detection can lead to better outcomes and preservation of hearing. The study aims to clarify optimal screening strategies for this patient population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with von Hippel-Lindau disease who are at least 15 years old.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 15 or those without a diagnosis of von Hippel-Lindau disease will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the incidence of hearing loss in vHL patients by enabling earlier detection of tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated the importance of early detection of ELSTs in vHL patients, suggesting that this approach may be beneficial, although specific screening strategies have not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* A diagnosis of vHL (either a carrier of a VHL mutation or vHL diagnosed by clinical criteria, i.e. at least two vHL-related manifestations diagnosed or one vHL-related manifestation diagnosed AND a first-degree relative with vHL)
* At least one audiological examination (including an audiogramme) and one MRI examination of the brain also visualizing the inner ear within 12 months of each other

Exclusion Criteria:

* Children under the age of 15 years

Where this trial is running

Copenhagen, Copenhagen N

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: Von Hippel-Lindau Disease, von Hippel-Lindau disease, Endolymphatic sac tumors, Audiological examination, MRI, Surveillance

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.