RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Multiparametric MRI for Characterization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

This study is looking at a type of sophisticated scan called multiparametric MRI to get a clearer picture of liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim is to see if these detailed MRI scans can help doctors understand the cancer better, leading to more accurate diagnoses and personalised treatment plans for patients. It's an observational study, meaning participants will have standard MRI scans, and their information will be looked at alongside their health journey. No special medications or new treatments are given as part of this study. It's happening in Germany and involves adults who have HCC or are suspected of having it, especially those who will be having specific liver treatments.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University Hospital Muenster

Enrolment target

128

Start

01 May 2025

Estimated completion

01 May 2028

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

What is this study about?

Imagine doctors need to understand something very complex inside your body, like liver cancer, also called HCC. This study uses a special kind of detailed scan, called multiparametric MRI, to get the best possible look.

Think of it like having a super-powered camera that can see not just the shape of the tumour, but also how it's working at a deeper level. This MRI helps doctors understand if the cancer is growing, how it's behaving, and what might be the best way to treat it. The researchers want to find out if these advanced scans can give doctors more information than standard scans, helping them make better decisions about treatments like TACE or SIRT.

This study, based in Germany, is an 'observational' one. This means people taking part will get their usual care, including these special MRI scans. The study team will then look at the information from these scans and compare it with the patients' overall health, how their treatment goes, and the results from other tests. They are not testing new drugs or treatments; they are simply trying to learn more from existing scanning technology to improve future care.

Key takeaways

Uses advanced MRI scans to study liver cancer (HCC).
Aims to improve diagnosis and treatment planning for HCC.
No new medicines or treatments are given as part of the study.
It's an 'observational' study, gathering information from existing care.
You need to be an adult with HCC or suspected HCC and suitable for MRI.
Conducted in Germany at a single hospital.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older, and either have liver cancer (HCC) or doctors suspect you might have it. You would also need to be planning to have specific liver treatments, like TACE or SIRT, as part of your usual medical care.

Crucially, you must be suitable for an MRI scan and be able to give your full permission, in writing, to be part of the study. This means understanding what's involved and agreeing to it.

Some things would mean you can't join. For example, if you have certain medical devices that aren't safe in an MRI scanner (like some pacemakers), or if you're very claustrophobic and can't manage an MRI. Also, if you have a known allergy to the special dye used in some MRI scans, severe kidney problems, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, then you wouldn't be able to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been told you have, or might have, liver cancer (HCC)?
Are you scheduled to have TACE or SIRT treatment?
Can you safely have an MRI scan?
Are you able to understand and sign a consent form?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part in this study, you won't be given any new medications or treatments. Your medical care, including any planned liver treatments like TACE or SIRT, will continue as normal. What's different is that you'll have extra-detailed MRI scans called multiparametric MRI, which are part of the study.

These scans will be done following standard procedures, just like a regular MRI. The doctors will then compare the information from these special scans with your clinical results and how you respond to your treatments. There are no study-specific interventions or extra visits beyond what's needed for your regular care and these specific MRI scans. The total duration of your involvement would depend on your treatment plan, as the study observes your outcomes alongside your care.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part could offer benefits by helping doctors learn more about liver cancer, which might improve how it's diagnosed and treated in the future for others. You won't receive new treatments, but the detailed scans might give your own doctors more information. The main risks are those generally associated with MRI scans, such as potential reactions to the contrast dye used (though this is carefully checked beforehand) or discomfort if you're claustrophobic. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Clinic of Radiology, University of Münster
Verified postcode
Münster, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is HCC?

HCC stands for Hepatocellular Carcinoma, which is the most common type of primary liver cancer.

What is a multiparametric MRI?

It's a very detailed type of MRI scan that gathers lots of different information about the body part being scanned, offering a more complete picture than a standard MRI.

Will I get new medicine in this study?

No, this study does not involve giving any new medications or treatments. You will receive your usual care.

What does 'observational' mean?

It means the study team will watch and collect information from your existing medical care, including your scans and health outcomes, rather than giving you new things to test.

Where is this study taking place?

This study is being run at a university hospital in Germany.

How to find out more

Max Masthoff, MD

max.masthoff@ukmuenster.de +492518343018 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.