Using PET scans to find the primary tumor in metastatic cancer cases

Role of Positron Emission Tomography in Detecting Primary Tumor in Cases of Metastases of Unknown Origin

Observational Sohag University · NCT06086652

This study is testing if a special type of scan can help find the original tumor in patients with metastatic cancer when doctors don’t know where it started.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSohag University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Sohag)
Trial IDNCT06086652 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the effectiveness of 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) in identifying the primary tumor in patients with metastatic cancer of unknown origin. Metastatic cancer of unknown primary site (MUO) represents a challenging diagnosis, accounting for 3-5% of all malignancies. The study aims to assess how well FDG-PET can detect the original tumor site that remains undetected by other imaging methods. Participants will undergo PET/CT scans to evaluate the potential of this imaging technique in improving diagnosis and treatment planning.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old with metastatic tumors where the primary site has not been identified through other imaging techniques.

Not a fit: Patients with a known primary tumor or those under 18 years of age will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the ability to identify the primary tumor in patients with metastatic cancer, leading to more targeted and effective treatment options.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of PET scans in cancer detection is established, this specific application for metastatic cancer of unknown origin is less common and may provide novel insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Age \> 18 years Patients with metastatic tumor. Primary site was not detected with other radiological examinations Both male and female.

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients with known primary tumor Pregnancy. Age \< 18 years.

Where this trial is running

Sohag

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 Metastasis of Unknown Origin
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.