Using Fluoroethyltyrosine to detect brain tumors

Fluoroethyltyrosine for the Evaluation of Intracranial Neoplasm

Observational University of California, San Francisco · NCT06474533

This study is testing if a special type of brain scan can help doctors better identify and understand brain tumors in people who might have recurring or new tumors.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment199 (estimated)
Ages4 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, San Francisco Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (San Francisco, California)
Trial IDNCT06474533 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the effectiveness of Fluoroethyltyrosine (FET) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans in identifying and characterizing intracranial neoplasms, particularly in differentiating between benign treatment-related changes and tumor recurrence. The study focuses on two populations: those with suspected recurrent high-grade gliomas and metastatic disease, and those prior to primary treatment. Participants will receive a single FET PET scan, with the possibility of up to two repeat scans, to assess the relationship between imaging results and clinical outcomes. Adverse events will be monitored throughout the study.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults with suspected intracranial neoplasms, particularly those with recurrent high-grade gliomas or metastatic lesions, as well as patients prior to primary treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with known incompatibility to PET or MRI scans, or those unlikely to comply with study procedures, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the accuracy of brain tumor detection and characterization, leading to better treatment decisions for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using similar imaging techniques for brain tumors, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Presence or suspicion of intracranial neoplasm in two populations:

  * Population 1: Participants after primary treatment (radiation therapy and/or surgery) with suspicion of recurrence on MRI.
  * Three sub-populations will be considered:

    * Recurrent metastatic lesions.
    * Recurrent high-grade gliomas (Grades 3 and 4).
    * Recurrent low-grade gliomas (Grade 2).
  * Population 2: Participants prior to primary treatment with planned biopsy or surgical resection.
* Age \> 3 years.

Participants in other clinical trials will be eligible for this study including patients undergoing surgery guided by 5-aminolevulinic acid.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participants with known incompatibility to PET or Computerized tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
* Participants unlikely to comply with study procedures, restrictions and requirements and judged by the Investigator to be unsuitable for study participation.

  * Sedation or anesthesia can be used for participants who cannot tolerate the exam.

Where this trial is running

San Francisco, California

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 Intracranial NeoplasmImaging Studies
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.