New scan could end guesswork for brain cancer survivors

NCT ID NCT04462419

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a PET scan using a radioactive tracer called 18F-Fluciclovine can tell the difference between a returning brain tumor and damage from past radiation therapy. Nineteen people with brain metastases who had suspicious MRI findings took part. The goal was to find the best scan settings to avoid unnecessary treatments for harmless radiation scars.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Fluciclovine F-18 (a radioactive tracer used in PET scans)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could give doctors a better way to tell whether a brain lesion after radiation is a returning tumor or harmless scar tissue, avoiding unnecessary surgeries or treatments.
What could go wrong
This was a very small, early-phase trial that was terminated early, so results are limited. The technique may not be accurate enough for routine use, and the tracer is not widely available.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Mayo Clinic in Florida

    Jacksonville, Florida, 32224-9980, United States