Can an ultrasound dye replace radiation scans for kidney scarring?
NCT ID NCT03653702
First seen Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 23, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial tests whether contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) using Lumason can detect kidney scarring as accurately as the standard DMSA scan, but without radiation. Children and young adults scheduled for a DMSA scan will receive an additional CEUS exam. If CEUS proves reliable, it could offer a safer, less expensive alternative for diagnosing kidney scarring.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- an ultrasound contrast agent called Lumason (sulfur hexafluoride lipid microspheres)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could offer a radiation-free, safer way to detect kidney scarring, potentially replacing DMSA scans and avoiding sedation and allergic reactions.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-phase trial with only 70 participants. The contrast-enhanced ultrasound may not be as accurate as the standard DMSA scan, and results may not apply to all patients.
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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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Study contacts
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Contact
Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••