Using MRI to detect bleeding in plaques for stroke diagnosis

Plaque Imaging in Routine Care to Detect Intraplaque Hemorrhage

Ludwig-Maximilians - University of Munich · NCT06749106

This study is trying to see if using MRI to find bleeding in artery plaques can help doctors better diagnose strokes, especially in patients who have unexplained strokes.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorLudwig-Maximilians - University of Munich (other)
Locations1 site (Munich)
Trial IDNCT06749106 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) detected by non-contrast MRI of the carotid artery and acute ischemic stroke events. By analyzing both prospective and retrospective data, the study seeks to determine if identifying IPH can enhance the diagnostic process for stroke patients, particularly those with cryptogenic strokes. The research focuses on integrating simpler imaging protocols into routine clinical practice to better stratify stroke etiology and identify patients at risk for recurrent strokes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with acute ischemic stroke who have undergone non-contrast carotid MRI as part of their routine diagnostic work-up.

Not a fit: Patients with posterior circulation infarcts, bilateral ischemic infarcts, or those who have had prior carotid interventions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnosis and targeted treatment for patients experiencing acute ischemic strokes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that imaging features related to plaque vulnerability can be associated with stroke events, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with acute ischemic stroke
* Availability of non-contrast carotid MRI scans obtained through routine diagnostic work-up

Exclusion Criteria:

* Infarct in the posterior circulation or bilateral ischemic infarcts
* Time between symptom onset and non-contrast carotid MRI \> 10 days
* Prior stenting of a carotid artery or carotid endarterectomy
* Age \< 18 years
* Life expectancy \< 1 year
* Inability to provide written informed consent

This eligibility criteria apply for the prospective part of the PARADE study.

Where this trial is running

Munich

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Acute Ischemic Stroke, plaque imaging, plaque vulnerability, cryptogenic stroke, routine care, stroke etiology, recurrent stroke, intraplaque hemorrhage

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.