CompletedPhase IInterventional

A trial using a new type of scan to detect myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that develops in the bone marrow and often damages the bones. This early-stage study is testing whether a new type of imaging scan can locate myeloma cells more accurately. Participants receive a small injection of a special liquid called a radiotracer. This tracer is designed to seek out myeloma cells. A PET-CT scanner then takes detailed pictures to see where the tracer collects. Taking part involves two injections and between two and twelve scans over two to three weeks at Oxford University Hospitals. The scan does not treat the cancer, but it will help doctors understand the best timing for scans and the radiation levels involved. The aim is to develop better tools to monitor myeloma in the future. The trial is voluntary, and participants can choose a scan schedule that suits their comfort level.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Phase

Phase I

Sponsor

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

15 May 2025

Estimated completion

31 Jul 2026

Multiple Myeloma

What is this study about?

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that starts in plasma cells inside the bone marrow. As it grows, it often causes bone pain, weak bones, and damage that can be seen on standard medical scans. Finding exactly where the cancer is located is essential for tracking how well treatments work. Doctors are looking for clearer, more precise ways to picture myeloma cells inside the body.

In this study, researchers are testing a new scan using a substance called a radiotracer. This liquid combines a small, safe dose of radiation with an antibody drug known to attach to myeloma cells. Once injected into a vein, the tracer travels through the bloodstream and sticks to myeloma spots. A scanner called a PET-CT camera can then pick up the tiny radioactive signals and create a 3D map of the cancer.

Because this is an early-stage (Phase I) trial, the main goal is to test how the tracer behaves, how fast it gathers in tumours, and how safe it is. It is not designed to cure or shrink your cancer. However, the results will help researchers design better scans that could improve how myeloma is diagnosed and monitored for patients in the future.

Key takeaways

Tests a new radioactive tracer scan (PET-CT) designed to spot myeloma cells in the bones.
Open to adults aged 30 and over with detectable myeloma spots on recent scans.
Lasts about two to three weeks at Oxford University Hospitals.
Does not treat cancer, but helps scientists improve future diagnostic tools.
Scan schedules are flexible to help minimise the burden of hospital visits.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to adults aged 30 and older who have a confirmed diagnosis of multiple myeloma or a related condition called multifocal plasmacytoma. To take part, you must have had a scan within the last four weeks that clearly shows at least one myeloma spot in your bones measuring at least 0.5 cm across.

You may be eligible if you have previously had a stem cell transplant using your own cells (an autologous transplant), provided it took place more than 100 days ago and you have no active infections. You must also have recovered from the main side effects of any earlier cancer treatments, and your routine blood tests must be in an acceptable range.

Because the scan involves radiation, female participants must not be able to have children. This means being naturally past the menopause (no periods for at least two years or confirmed by hormone tests) or having had surgery such as a hysterectomy.

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.

I am aged 30 or over.
I have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma or multifocal plasmacytoma.
A scan within the last four weeks shows at least one myeloma area of at least 0.5 cm.
If I had a stem cell transplant, it was more than 100 days ago and I have no active infections.
Female check: I am post-menopausal and unable to become pregnant.
I am able and willing to travel to Oxford for scans over a two to three week period.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part takes place at Oxford University Hospitals and lasts between 14 and 21 days. During this time, a trained nurse or doctor will place a small plastic tube (cannula) into your vein. You will receive two injections of the radiotracer.

After each injection, you will lie flat inside a PET-CT scanner so pictures can be taken. The study involves between 2 and 12 scans in total. The research team knows that travelling to hospital frequently can be tiring, so you can discuss with the team how many scans you feel able to manage. Safety checks and blood tests will be combined into as few hospital visits as possible.

Once your final scans and safety checks are finished, your active role in the trial ends. Your normal cancer care will continue as planned with your regular hospital team.

Potential risks and benefits

There is no direct medical benefit to your health from taking part, as this scan is a test and not a treatment. The main benefit is helping doctors develop better imaging techniques for people with myeloma in the future. The risks include temporary bruising, tenderness, or a tiny risk of infection from the needle used for the injections. You will also receive an extra dose of radiation—equal to about 28 times the natural background radiation an average person in the UK receives in a year. The study team has kept this dose as low as possible while still getting clear pictures. You are completely free to leave the trial at any point, and choosing to stop will never affect your regular NHS care.

Locations (1)

Churchill Hospital
Approximate
Oxford, England

Common questions

Will this scan treat or cure my myeloma?

No. This trial is only testing an imaging technique to see how well it spots myeloma cells. It does not provide any cancer treatment.

Is the radiation from the scan dangerous?

Any scan with radiation carries a small risk. The extra radiation in this study is about equal to 28 years of natural background radiation in the UK. The doctors consider this risk to be low, but they will explain it clearly before you decide.

Do I have to do all 12 scans?

No. You only need to complete a minimum number (between 2 and 6 depending on the group), and you can choose whether you feel up to having more scans, up to a maximum of 12.

Where does the trial take place?

The study is being run by specialist doctors at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust in Oxford.

Can I leave the study if I find it too tiring?

Yes. Taking part is entirely voluntary. You can withdraw at any time without giving a reason, and your regular NHS treatment will continue as normal.

How to find out more

Karthik Ramasamy

karthik.ramasamy@ouh.nhs.uk - Official trial record

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