Clinical Impact of 18F-FDGal PETCT and PETMRI in Patients Suspected of or Diagnosed With Hepatocellular Carcinoma

What this Trial Is About

Hepatocellular carcinoma HCC is the most common primary liver tumor and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with poor median survival. In advanced stages, HCC often spreads beyond the liver to organs like lungs, bones, and lymph nodes. This research aims to assess the clinical impact of a new liver-specific PET tracer, 18F-FDGal, combined with PETCT or PETMRI scans, to improve diagnosis, staging, and evaluation of treatment response in patients suspected of or diagnosed with HCC. Participants suspected of or diagnosed with HCC will receive an initial diagnostic 18F-FDGal PETCT or PETMRI scan. Those undergoing loco-regional treatment such as surgery, ablation, or chemo-radio-embolization will have follow-up scans at 1-2 months and 3-5 months after treatment. Experienced specialists will analyze these images to detect lesions and compare findings to other imaging methods. The study aims to enroll about 125 patients over five years. During the study, participants will undergo PET scans using the 18F-FDGal tracer to assess liver metabolic function and tumor characteristics. The main outcomes include measuring the sensitivity and specificity of 18F-FDGal PET imaging and evaluating liver function over five years. The study will monitor changes before and after treatment, helping to understand prognosis and treatment effects. Participation involves multiple imaging assessments and clinical evaluations throughout the study period.

18F-FDGal PET/CT and PET/MRI in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma