Benefit of Spectral Information Provided by Photon Counting CT in Patients Suspected for Lung Cancer

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the use of photon counting CT (PCCT) and its spectral information to understand its impact on follow-up exams in patients suspected of having lung cancer. The study also compares conventional CT, CT combined with 18F-FDG PET, and PCCT combined with 18F-FDG PET for staging lung cancer based on tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification. The goal is to assess diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for malignant lesions and determine if spectral information improves clinical readings and reduces unnecessary follow-ups. Participants are randomly assigned to two groups: one where radiologists review CT images without spectral information and another with access to spectral CT images including low virtual monoenergetic images, virtual non-contrast images, iodine maps, and effective atomic number. Both groups follow the American College of Radiology guidelines for incidental findings and suggest follow-up exams accordingly. Additional examinations and their financial impacts are recorded three months after the PCCT scan. Retrospective assessments compare PET/CT, conventional CT, and PCCT combined with PET to evaluate diagnostic accuracy. During the study, patients undergo CT scans with or without spectral data, and radiologists create structured reports noting all significant findings, both malignant and benign. Follow-up needs are recorded, and patient records are reviewed after three months and again at 12 months to assess malignant lesion outcomes and TNM staging accuracy. The study measures the number of additional examinations required and evaluates cost savings and diagnostic performance over time. Patient involvement includes imaging, clinical evaluation, and record review for up to two years after enrollment of the last patient.

Benefit of Spectral Information in Patients Suspected for Lung Cancer