Screening MRI for brain disease in advanced lung cancer patients
ValUe of Screening MRI Brain in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Stage IV Non-oncogene Addicted Non-small Cell Lung CANcer - The VULCAN Trial
This study tests whether MRI scans of the brain can help find hidden brain cancer in patients with advanced lung cancer who don’t have any symptoms.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Medical Center Groningen Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Groningen) |
| Trial ID | NCT05864794 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the value of conducting MRI scans of the brain in patients with newly diagnosed stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who are asymptomatic and fit for systemic treatment. The aim is to identify any undetected brain metastases that may influence treatment decisions. Participants will undergo an MRI to screen for brain disease, which is crucial for managing their overall treatment plan. The study focuses on patients who do not have any symptoms of brain involvement and are not candidates for curative treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with stage IV non-small cell lung cancer who are asymptomatic and fit for systemic treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with prior treatment for stage IV disease or those with specific oncogenic mutations that have approved targeted therapies may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection of brain metastases in lung cancer patients, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific screening method for asymptomatic patients with stage IV NSCLC is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Histologically or cytologically confirmed stage IV metastatic NSCLC, not amenable to curative treatment. * Fit for systemic treatment (PS 0-2) according to standard of care. * No symptoms of brain disease disease assessed according to standard clinical care by the thoracic oncologist. Exclusion Criteria: * Prior/concomitant therapy for stage IV disease. * Oncogenic diver mutation (e.g. EGFR, ALK, ROS1, RET, MET, and BRAF) with approved targeted treatment. * Contraindications for MRI scan with contrast as per standard of care protocol of the institution.
Where this trial is running
Groningen
- University Medical Center Groningen — Groningen, Netherlands (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: F. Bensch, MD, PhD
- Email: f.bensch@umcg.nl
- Phone: 0031503616161
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.