PET scans probe whether brain inflammation fuels 'chemo brain' in breast cancer
NCT ID NCT04364672
First seen Jul 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 28, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study uses a special PET scan to measure brain inflammation in women with stage II–III breast cancer before and after chemotherapy. The goal is to see whether higher levels of inflammation are linked to memory and thinking problems, often called 'chemo brain.' Twenty women will undergo two PET scans and cognitive tests to explore this possible connection.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- a radioactive tracer called [18F]DPA-714, given as an injection for PET scans
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could help explain why some breast cancer patients experience 'chemo brain' and point toward ways to prevent or treat it.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early, small study (20 people) that only looks at brain scans and thinking tests — it cannot prove that inflammation causes cognitive problems or lead to any treatment on its own.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for BREAST CANCER are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
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.
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can a radioactive tracer pinpoint Cancer's first stop?
- Can a personalized exercise program boost recovery in cancer survivors?
- Smartwatch could spot nerve damage before it starts
- Could ionized gas help fight breast cancer after surgery?
- Radiation may let breast cancer patients keep their nipple
- Can a smart digital program restore sleep for cancer survivors?