New imaging technique aims to catch scleroderma inflammation before scarring sets in

NCT ID NCT07212959

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

Summary

This study tested whether a type of PET scan called CXCR4-PET/CT can detect inflammation in people with systemic sclerosis (SSc), a disease that causes scarring in organs like the lungs. The scan uses a radioactive tracer to highlight active immune cells. The goal is to find inflammation early, before it turns into permanent fibrosis. Twelve adults with early SSc and lung scarring took part in this completed imaging study.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

68Ga-Pentixafor (a radioactive tracer for PET imaging)

What this could lead to

If successful, this imaging method could help doctors detect inflammation early in systemic sclerosis, potentially preventing irreversible organ damage.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, completed study with only 12 participants, so results may not apply to all patients. It is an imaging test, not a treatment, so it cannot change the disease course on its own.

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.

systemic sclerosis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University Hospital Würzburg

    Würzburg, Bavaria, 97078, Germany