FLT-PET in HCC
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Molecular imaging coupled with advanced image processing for response assessment to transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation in patients with HCC.
IRAS ID
131066
Contact name
Rohini Sharma
Contact email
Research summary
This study uses a type of scan that might help us differentiate from active liver cancer and surrounding scar tissue of the liver. The scan will also help us determine if the tumour is changing with therapy. This study uses a type of scan called a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan along with a very small amount of injected radioactive substance called a "tracer". We believe that as the tumour cells grow faster then normal cells around it, they will absorb more of this tracer. The PET scanner can detect this and the rate of tumour growth. For the study we will also conduct a CT scan to define the region of interest, the scanner used will be a PET/CT. Both the PET and CT scans are donut shaped instruments that can be used to look at parts of the body. Essentially PET/tracer response will be observed after a procedure called transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) to see if there is any change in the size of the tumour. TACE is when a small tube is placed in the groin and threaded into the blood vessels supplying the liver cancer. Chemotherapy is then injected in the cancer and blocked off using something similar to a sponge. Blood samples will be looked at to identify any key proteins useful for predicting future response to treatment.
REC name
London - London Bridge Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/1011
Date of REC Opinion
13 Aug 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion