Using MRI to assess liver damage in children with autoimmune liver disease

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques, specifically MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and MR elastography (MREL), as non-invasive biomarkers for assessing bile duct damage and liver fibrosis in pediatric patients with autoimmune liver diseases, including Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) and Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH). The study will correlate MRI findings with liver histology and circulating biomarkers to better understand the pathophysiological processes involved in these conditions. By focusing on children aged 6-23 years, the study seeks to provide insights into the progression of these diseases without the need for invasive procedures.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 6-23 years old.
2. Established or suspected clinical diagnosis of AIH or PSC.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of liver transplantation.
2. Chronic Hepatitis B or untreated hepatitis C virus infection.
3. Pregnancy.
4. Absolute contraindication for MRI (e.g. pacemaker, metallic implants, claustrophobia).
5. Diagnosis of cystic fibrosis or biliary atresia
6. Diagnosis of cardiac hepatopathy.
7. Diagnosis of Wilson's disease, Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, or Glycogen storage disease.
8. Skin conditions which could be aggravated by MREL (i.e. Epidermolysis bullosa).

Where it's running

• Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center
  Cincinnati, Ohio, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Alexander Miethke, MD — Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Alexander Miethke, MD
• Email: Alexander.Miethke@cchmc.org
• Phone: 513-636-8948

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.