Using Amino Acid PET/MRI to Diagnose Brain Tumors

Diagnostic Assessment of Amino Acid PET/MRI in the Evaluation of Glioma and Brain Metastases

Observational Norwegian University of Science and Technology · NCT04111588

This study is testing if using a special imaging technique that combines amino acid PET and MRI can help doctors better diagnose brain tumors in adults who need surgery or a biopsy.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment160 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNorwegian University of Science and Technology Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations3 sites (Bergen and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04111588 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of combining amino acid PET with MRI for diagnosing gliomas and brain metastases. It aims to improve the accuracy of tumor grading, assess true tumor volume, and differentiate viable tumor tissue from treatment-induced changes. The study will involve adult patients who are scheduled for tissue sampling or surgery for brain tumors, utilizing promising amino acid PET tracers to enhance diagnostic capabilities. The research seeks to compare different PET tracers and their diagnostic value in various brain neoplasms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 years with planned treatment for gliomas or brain metastases requiring surgery or stereotactic radiosurgery.

Not a fit: Patients with incompatible medical devices, inability to provide informed consent, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment planning for patients with brain tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar PET/MRI approaches, indicating potential for improved diagnostic accuracy.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Inclusion criteria Glioma (LGG, HGG and recurrent HGG):

  * Planned treatment for WHO grade II-IV diffuse glioma
  * Adult patients (\>18 years)
  * Planned tissue sampling for histopathological diagnosis.
  * KPS \>60 (able to care for self)

Inclusion criteria Brain Metastasis:

* Indication of surgery or stereotactic radiosurgery for 1-4 brain metastases
* Planned surgery: Suspicion of brain metastasis or known diagnosis
* Stereotactic surgery: Known primary cancer
* Adult patients (\>18 years)
* Estimated survival at least 3 months after inclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

* Exclusion criteria (Glioma and Brain Metastasis):

  * Pacemakers or defibrillators not compatible with 3T MRI
  * No ability to obtain informed consent (e.g. due to severe dysphasia or cognitive deficits).
  * Pregnancy (pregnancy test for all women in fertile age when doubt about possible pregnancy exist)
  * Breastfeeding
  * Weight \> 120 kg

Where this trial is running

Bergen and 2 other locations

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 Brain NeoplasmsDiagnosisMagnetic Resonance ImagingPositron-Emission TomographyPET-tracer
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.