Imaging of Endometriosis With Total-body PET-CT (PET-Endo)
This study is looking into whether new types of scans, called PET/CT and PET/MRI, can help doctors find and understand a condition called endometriosis. Endometriosis affects many women and can cause severe pain and problems with getting pregnant. Currently, surgery is often needed to properly diagnose it, which carries risks. Researchers want to see if these advanced scans, which use special harmless substances called 'tracers', can show where endometriosis is and what's happening within it, like bleeding or scarring. This could lead to earlier and less invasive ways to diagnose and monitor the condition. Up to 30 women already scheduled for surgery for suspected endometriosis will participate by having these scans in Edinburgh.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it, causing pain and sometimes making it difficult to get pregnant. While we know a lot about endometriosis, it can be tricky to diagnose, often requiring surgery. This study aims to find a new way to properly diagnose endometriosis using special types of scans.
Researchers are using advanced scans called PET/CT and PET/MRI. These aren't like regular X-rays or ultrasound scans. They use tiny amounts of harmless substances, called 'tracers', which are injected into your arm. These tracers temporarily gather in areas of disease, helping the special scanners create detailed pictures. The scientists want to see if these scans can show different types of endometriosis and if they can reveal important clues about what's happening in the affected areas, such as bleeding or scarring.
By comparing the scan results with what doctors find during surgery, the researchers hope to learn if these new scans can accurately pinpoint endometriosis. This could be a big step towards a future where diagnosing endometriosis is easier, less invasive, and helps doctors understand the condition better to provide more targeted care.
Key takeaways
- Researchers are testing new scans for endometriosis.
- This study uses PET/CT and PET/MRI scans with special 'tracers'.
- It aims to understand endometriosis better, not to directly diagnose you right now.
- You must already be scheduled for endometriosis surgery to participate.
- Two visits to Edinburgh for scans are required, plus one PET/MRI scan.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women aged 18 to 60 who are experiencing ongoing tummy pain and whose doctors think they might have endometriosis. Importantly, you need to be already scheduled for an operation (keyhole surgery) in the next four months to confirm if you have endometriosis.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant. You also can't join if you’ve been through menopause (stopped periods for over a year and aren't on hormone therapy for periods), or if you've already had your womb removed.
Other reasons include if you have certain medical conditions like glaucoma or an unstable heart condition, or if you can't have an MRI scan due to metal in your body or severe claustrophobia. Your doctor can help determine if this study is suitable for you.
- Are you between 18 and 60 years old?
- Do you have ongoing pelvic pain and your doctor suspects endometriosis?
- Are you scheduled for keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) for endometriosis within the next four months?
- Are you not pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant?
- Have you not had your womb removed and not gone through menopause?
- Are you able to have an MRI scan (no metal in your body, not severely claustrophobic)?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll need to visit Edinburgh for two separate appointments. During each visit, you will have a full-body PET/CT scan. At a separate appointment, you will also have a PET/MRI scan. Before one of your PET/MRI scans, you'll be given a medicine called Buscopan as an injection to help improve the scan images. You will receive a different 'tracer' substance, given into a vein, at each of your PET/CT visits.
You'll be asked about your medical history and to fill out a questionnaire at the beginning. After your scans, you’ll have the option to complete an online survey about your experience and might be invited for a short chat about it. The study will then compare the results from your scans with what doctors find during your planned keyhole surgery. The total duration for your involvement will depend on when your surgery is scheduled after your scans.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'tracer'?
A tracer is a special, safe substance that's put into your vein. It helps the scans light up certain areas of your body to show what's happening inside.
Will these scans diagnose my endometriosis?
While the scans will provide information, this study is about research, not a direct diagnosis for you. Your diagnosis will still come from your planned surgery.
How long will each scan appointment take?
The study mentions two visits for PET/CT scans and one for PET/MRI, but doesn't specify the exact time for each. Scan appointments usually take several hours including preparation.
Is Buscopan safe?
Buscopan is a medication commonly used in scans to relax certain muscles. The study will check if you have any conditions that would make it unsafe for you.
Do I have to travel to Edinburgh?
Yes, all the special scans for this study will take place in Edinburgh.
How to find out more
Lucy HR Whitaker, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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