Using MRI and CT to Evaluate Tumor Response in Esophageal Cancer Treatment

MRI and CT Simulation in the Evaluation of Tumor Response and Target Volume Definition for Esophageal or Esophagogastric Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemoradiotherapy

Not applicable Interventional Cancer Institute and Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences · NCT02988921

This study tests whether MRI can better track how well treatment is working for people with esophageal cancer compared to regular CT scans.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCancer Institute and Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Beijing)
Trial IDNCT02988921 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared to conventional CT simulation in assessing tumor response and defining target volumes for patients with esophageal or esophagogastric cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy. Patients will undergo both MRI and CT scans before treatment, after 18-22 fractions of therapy, and post-treatment to evaluate changes in tumor characteristics. The study aims to establish predictive models based on imaging features to improve treatment planning and patient outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 with histologically confirmed esophageal or esophagogastric junction cancer that is unresectable or potentially resectable.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for MRI, distant metastasis beyond supraclavicular lymph nodes, or prior thoracic radiation or chemotherapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the accuracy of tumor response assessment and treatment planning, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in utilizing advanced imaging techniques for cancer treatment evaluation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma of the esophageal or esophagogastric junction
* Unresectable or potentially resectable tumor (cT3-4N0-1M0-M1a, according to AJCC 6th) based on standard primary staging by EUS and CT
* Age\>18 years
* No distant metastasis other than supraclavicular lymph nodes
* No prior history of thoracic radiation or chemotherapy
* Patients must have normal organ and marrow function as defined below: Leukocytes: greater than or equal to 3,500 G/L; Platelets: greater than or equal to 100,000/mm3 .Hemoglobin:greater than or equal to 10g/L .Total bilirubin: within normal institutional limits; AST/ALT: less than or equal to 1.5 times the upper limit; Creatinine within normal upper limits
* Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication for MRI scanning
* Patients with other cancer history except cervical carcinoma in situ and non-malignant melanoma skin cancer
* Pregnant or lactating females
* Contraindication for radiotherapy or chemotherapy

Where this trial is running

Beijing

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 Esophagus CancerEsophagogastric Junction Cancer
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.