Imaging of High-Grade Gliomas
The purpose of this study is to determine whether off-label tracer PET/CT can provide additional or superior information in the diagnosis of recurrent high-grade gliomas compared to the current gold standard of MRI imaging.
About
Protocol Description
Patients in this study will receive up to three doses of a tracer in conjunction within a week of required serial MRI scans that are a part of their standard of care for monitoring tumor progression or recurrence. After images are obtained for all patients, they will be reviewed by Jackson Kiser, M.D., a diagnostic radiologist at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.
The primary outcome measures we will obtain are the sensitivity and specificity of MRI versus tracer PET/CT in the diagnosis of high-grade gliomas and differentiation of tumor progression from treatment-related changes.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- Written and voluntarily given informed consent
- Imaging evidence indicative of a newly diagnosed grade III or grade IV glioma
- Negative serum pregnancy test in female patients at childbearing age
Exclusion Criteria
- Hepatic or renal dysfunction
- Patients who are judged by investigators as being ineligible for participation in the study
- Patients with a history of relevant drug hypersensitivity
- Patients who receive another investigational drug shortly before acquisition of consent
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Primary Investigator
Mark Witcher M.D., Ph.D., completed his medical education and training with a focus in neuroscience, as well as neurosurgery residency and fellowship in functional neurosurgery. He was fortunate to train under mentors focused on translational neuroscience—integrating neurosurgical research into clinical neurosurgical practice—and Carilion Clinic Neurosurgery provides an incredible opportunity to continue the tradition.
Dr. Witcher specializes in helping patients with functional neurosurgical issues. He has dedicated many years to studying electrical signaling in the brain to better understand the neuron behaviors that cause tremors, seizures, movement disorders, pain, weakness, sensory symptoms and blackouts.
Contact Information
Jordan Darden, Ph.D.
Director of Neurosurgery Research
