New MRI technique may spot brain tumor return vs. radiation scar

NCT ID NCT04373720

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study is testing whether magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), a special type of MRI that measures tissue stiffness, can tell apart radiation necrosis (damage from radiation therapy) from recurrent glioma (tumor regrowth) in patients who have already been treated for brain cancer. About 80 adults with a history of glioma will undergo MRE along with standard MRI. The goal is to see if stiffness measurements can provide a more accurate diagnosis, potentially guiding better treatment decisions.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a non-invasive way to distinguish between tumor regrowth and radiation damage, helping doctors choose the right treatment without unnecessary surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a small early-stage pilot study, so results may not be definitive. The technique is still experimental and may not be accurate enough for routine use.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

glioma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

GLIOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

M D Anderson Cancer Center
RECRUITING

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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