Using advanced MRI to diagnose brain tumors

Correlation of Hyperpolarized 13C-pyruvate Metabolic Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Tumor Histopathology in Patients With Infiltrating Gliomas

Phase 1 Interventional University of Maryland, Baltimore · NCT04772456

This study is testing a new type of MRI to see if it can better identify brain tumors called infiltrating gliomas in patients who are about to have surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment5 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Maryland, Baltimore Academic / other
Locations1 site (Baltimore, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT04772456 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the safety and feasibility of hyperpolarized metabolic MRI for diagnosing infiltrating gliomas, a type of brain tumor. It will assess how accurately this advanced imaging technique can identify these tumors compared to standard MRI methods. The study will involve up to 5 patients at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, who have suspected infiltrating gliomas or a history of such tumors and are scheduled for surgery. The FDA has approved the use of hyperpolarized 13C-pyruvate in this investigation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-80 with suspected infiltrating gliomas or a history of such tumors who can undergo MRI.

Not a fit: Patients unable to undergo MRI or those with severe reactions to IV contrast may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more accurate diagnoses of infiltrating gliomas, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies using advanced MRI techniques have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* • Patients with a new brain lesion interpreted as suspected infiltrating gliomas including but not limited to (diffuse astrocytoma WHO grade 2; oligodendroglioma WHO grade 2 and 3; anaplastic astrocytoma WHO grade 3; astrocytoma WHO grade 4), OR, patients with prior history of infiltrating glioma scheduled for surgery for tumor biopsy or resection.

  * Ages 18-80, including male and female
  * Suitable to undergo contrast-enhanced MRI
  * Negative serum pregnancy test

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to undergo MRI scan
* Inability to receive IV contrast secondary to severe reaction or renal insufficiency.

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland

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 Glioma
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.