Understanding pancreatic fat and cyst features in patients

Determination of Pancreatic Steatosis Prevalence and Correlation With High-risk Cyst Features in Patients With Pre-malignant Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Endoscopic Ultrasound

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT05334836

This study is trying to see if measuring fat in the pancreas and liver can help find early signs of dangerous pancreatic cysts in patients who might be at risk for pancreatic cancer.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment236 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Shatin, New Territories)
Trial IDNCT05334836 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to determine the prevalence of pancreatic steatosis and its correlation with high-risk features of pancreatic cysts. It involves screening patients with pancreatic cystic lesions presumed to be intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) or mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN) using MRI for quantifying pancreatic and liver fat. The goal is to enhance early detection and surveillance of pre-malignant lesions to improve outcomes for patients at risk of pancreatic cancer.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 or older with at least one pancreatic cystic lesion or healthy subjects.

Not a fit: Patients with known pancreatic cancer, prior pancreatic resection, or significant alcohol consumption may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection and better management of pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using imaging techniques for early detection of pancreatic lesions, indicating that this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 18 or older
2. Patients with at least 1 pancreatic cystic lesion presumed to be IPMN or MCN based on CT, MRI or EUS features, with a cyst size ≥ 5mm; or healthy subjects.
3. Patients who are able to provide written informed consent to participate in the study and comply with the study procedures.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Unable to provide written informed consent
2. Patients with metallic implants or other contraindications to MRI
3. Patients with contraindications for endoscopy due to comorbidities
4. Patients with known pancreatic cancer or prior pancreatic resection
5. Patients with significant alcohol consumption, defined as alcohol intake of over 20 g daily (140 g weekly) for men and 10 g daily (70 g weekly) for women

Where this trial is running

Shatin, New Territories

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 SteatosisPancreatic Cyst
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.