Using PET scans to diagnose subclinical rejection in kidney transplant patients
Official title: Non-invasive Diagnosis and Management of Subclinical Rejection in Kidney Transplant Patients Using 18F-fluorodeoxy Glucose Positron Emission Tomography (18FDG-PET/CT)
Run by University of Liege · NCT04702022 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a special type of scan can safely spot early signs of kidney rejection in transplant patients without needing a painful biopsy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Liege Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Liège, Liège) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 4, 2021 |
| Main results expected | January 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | January 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 9, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04702022 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are kidney transplant recipients aged over 18 who are stable and not taking anticoagulants.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, have polyomavirus nephropathy, or are highly sensitized may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging as a non-invasive method to diagnose subclinical rejection in kidney transplant patients. Traditionally, renal biopsies are the gold standard for detecting acute rejection, but they are invasive and carry risks. The study aims to validate PET/CT imaging as a safer alternative that can help identify patients who may benefit from corticosteroid withdrawal without the need for biopsy. The research will involve kidney transplant recipients who are monitored for signs of rejection using this imaging technique.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce the need for invasive biopsies and improve management of kidney transplant patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results using similar PET imaging techniques for diagnosing rejection in kidney transplants.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Kidney recipients aged over 18 and of all sexes Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant patients * Polyomavirus nephropathy * Highly sensitised patients (historical or at 3 months Donor specific antibodies) * No corticosteroids withdrawal allowed (second kidney transplantation or primary disease)
Where it's running
-
Antoine Bouquegneau
Liège, Liège, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Francois Jouret — University of Liege
- Study coordinator: Antoine Bouquegneau
- Email: antoine.bouquegneau@gmail.com
- Phone: +32473353321
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.