New MRI technique aims to solve brain tumor treatment mystery
NCT ID NCT03347617
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This pilot study tested whether a special MRI using ferumoxytol (an iron-based contrast agent) can better distinguish true tumor growth from treatment-related inflammation (pseudoprogression) in people with glioblastoma receiving the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab. The study enrolled 52 newly diagnosed patients. The goal was to improve how doctors assess treatment response, potentially avoiding unnecessary treatment changes.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and ferumoxytol (Feraheme)
What this could lead to
If successful, this imaging method could help doctors more accurately tell whether a glioblastoma is growing or just reacting to treatment, avoiding unnecessary changes in therapy.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early pilot study that was terminated early, so results are limited. The imaging technique may not prove reliable enough for routine use.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
Portland, Oregon, 97239, United States