RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Investigation of Differential Biology of Benign and Malignant Renal Masses Using Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques

This study is looking at new types of MRI scans to help doctors tell the difference between kidney growths that are harmless (benign) and those that are cancerous (malignant). Sometimes, people have surgery or biopsies for growths that turn out to be harmless, causing worry and unnecessary procedures. Researchers want to see if special MRI scans, including Hyperpolarised MRI, Sodium MRI, and Deuterium metabolic imaging (DMI) MRI, can provide clearer pictures of what these growths are made of. The goal is to develop these scanning methods so doctors can make more accurate diagnoses and avoid unnecessary treatments for patients whose kidney growths aren't cancerous.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Cambridge

Enrolment target

Start

01 Jan 2023

Estimated completion

01 Jan 2026

Kidney Cancer

What is this study about?

This research study is all about improving how doctors tell the difference between different types of growths found in the kidney. Sometimes, when a growth is found, it's difficult to know just by looking at standard scans if it's harmless or if it could be cancer. This can lead to people having operations or other procedures that might not be needed, causing extra worry and recovery time.

The study is exploring some very new and advanced types of MRI scans. These aren't like the usual MRI scans you might have had. They look at things in a different way, such as how certain substances move around inside the body or how cells use sugar. By seeing these detailed changes, the researchers hope to find unique signs that show whether a kidney growth is harmless or cancerous. The specific scans being tested include Hyperpolarised MRI, Sodium MRI, and Deuterium metabolic imaging, which involve either a special injection, a different kind of scan, or a special drink before the scan.

The main aim is to develop these scanning techniques further so that in the future, doctors can use them to get a much clearer picture of what a kidney growth is. This could mean fewer people having unnecessary biopsies or surgery, which would be a big step forward in patient care. The information gathered from this study will help make future scanning methods even better.

Key takeaways

New MRI techniques are being tested to identify kidney growths.
Aims to reduce unnecessary surgeries or biopsies for harmless growths.
This is a research study, not a direct treatment.
Participation involves special MRI scans; no medication.
You won't get direct personal benefit, but will help future patients.
You can stop participating at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and able to understand and sign a consent form. You might be eligible if you have a kidney growth that doctors suspect is either harmless or cancerous, based on your current medical checks.

If you're a woman, you'll need to be past menopause or using reliable birth control. If you're a man, you also need to use reliable birth control during the study. You must also be generally healthy enough to have at least one study visit.

However, you can't join if you can't have an MRI scan (for example, if you have certain metal implants), if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have serious heart, lung, or brain conditions. If you use an IUCD, it must be safe for MRI scans. The study doctors will also check your overall health and blood tests to make sure it's safe for you to take part.

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?
Do you have a kidney growth that doctors are investigating?
Are you able to have an MRI scan?
Are you able to use reliable birth control (if applicable)?
Are you generally healthy enough for clinic visits and scans?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This is an imaging study, meaning it mainly involves different types of MRI scans. There are no medications you need to take as part of the study, only potentially a special injection or drink before some of the scans. The exact number of visits and scans will vary depending on which scanning technique is being tested for you. The study aims to gather data that will help improve future diagnostic methods, not to provide immediate treatment. There will be no long-term follow-up specific to the study, beyond gathering the imaging data. The total duration of your participation would involve the scanning sessions and related appointments.

Potential risks and benefits

The potential benefit of participating is helping researchers develop better tools to diagnose kidney growths, which could lead to fewer unnecessary procedures for future patients. However, there is no direct personal benefit expected for you from taking part. Potential risks include those usually associated with MRI scans, such as claustrophobia or reactions to any contrast agents or special substances used (like the hyperpolarised solution or deuterated glucose). These will be carefully explained to you. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University Department of Radiology
Verified postcode
Cambridge, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body without using X-rays.

Will this study change my current medical treatment?

No, this study is for research to develop new diagnostic methods and will not directly change your current medical care or treatment plan.

What are 'benign' and 'malignant' growths?

A 'benign' growth is harmless and not cancer. A 'malignant' growth is cancerous and can spread if not treated.

Do I have to do anything special before an MRI scan?

Depending on the type of scan, you might have a special injection or drink. All instructions will be clearly given to you before your appointment.

How long will each study visit take?

The length of each visit will depend on the specific scans involved, but the research team will let you know what to expect beforehand.

How to find out more

Ines Horvat-Menih, MD

ih357@cam.ac.uk +44 1223 767062 Official trial record

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