Could a simple dye and camera detect mouth cancer early?

NCT ID NCT01269190

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a special camera and a fluorescent dye called proflavine can help doctors see abnormal cells in the mouth. Researchers will take images of mouth lesions from 275 adults who are already scheduled for surgery. The goal is to see if this non-invasive method can tell the difference between normal tissue, pre-cancer, and cancer, potentially reducing the need for biopsies in the future.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Proflavine (a fluorescent dye applied to mouth tissue)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to a non-invasive way to detect oral pre-cancer and cancer during a routine exam, reducing the need for biopsies.

What could go wrong

This is an early feasibility study, so the imaging method may not be accurate enough to replace standard biopsy. The dye may also cause allergic reactions in some people.

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.

Mouth Neoplasms oral cavity neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • M D Anderson Cancer Center

    RECRUITING

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-••••

    Contact