New PET/MRI scan could spot elusive brain tumors in Cushing's patients

NCT ID NCT03346954

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a special scan called [11C]-Methionine PET/MRI can better locate tiny pituitary tumors that cause Cushing's disease. Standard MRI often misses these tumors, leading to risky exploratory surgery. The study involved 33 adults with confirmed Cushing's disease who received the new scan before surgery. If successful, this approach could reduce the need for invasive catheter tests and improve surgical outcomes.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

[11C]-Methionine (a radioactive tracer used in PET imaging)

What this could lead to

If this scan works well, it could help doctors find hidden pituitary tumors more accurately, reducing the need for invasive catheter tests and improving surgical success.

What could go wrong

This was a small, completed study with only 33 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The scan may still miss some tumors or give false positives.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome allergic disease Cushing disease due to pituitary adenoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Service de Médecine Nucléaire - Hospices Civils de Lyon

    Bron, 69677, France