Blow into this tube: a new breath test could spot liver cancer and COVID-19

NCT ID NCT04341012

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: Mayo Clinic Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study by Mayo Clinic tested whether analyzing chemicals in a person's breath could help diagnose or predict the course of liver disease, liver cancer, and COVID-19. Researchers collected breath samples from 46 participants and looked for unique patterns of volatile organic compounds. The goal was to develop a simple, non-invasive clinical test, but the study was small and focused on building the method, not yet proving it works for routine diagnosis.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: breath sample analysis
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple, non-invasive breath test to help diagnose or predict the course of diseases like liver cancer and COVID-19.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study (46 participants) focused on developing the test, not proving it works for diagnosis. The results may not apply to larger or different populations.

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.

COVID-19 liver cancer liver disorder Liver Neoplasms

As listed by the trial registrant

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

COVID19 LIVER CANCER LIVER DISEASES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mayo Clinic Florida

Jacksonville, Florida, 32224, United States

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