Using Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound to Monitor Response to Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy in Pancreatic and Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors

What this Trial Is About

Neuroendocrine tumors NETs are a diverse group of tumors originating from neuroendocrine cells, mainly in the gastroenteropancreatic system. Their incidence is rising due to better diagnostic methods. This research focuses on patients with unresectable or advanced NETs treated with Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy PRRT, a targeted radionuclide treatment recommended for those with somatostatin receptor-positive disease. The study aims to understand biological changes induced by PRRT and improve early assessment of treatment response. Participants will undergo Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound DCE-US using contrast agents to evaluate tumor blood flow and vascularization. This technique is assessed through the Vuebox software, which analyzes ultrasound clips to derive detailed perfusion parameters. Tumor vascularization will be evaluated at multiple time points before PRRT, shortly after each treatment cycle planned every 8 weeks, and at 6 and 9 months after the last treatment. During the study, patients will receive standard PRRT treatment while undergoing ultrasound assessments. Researchers will monitor tumor blood flow changes and vascular patterns to better understand treatment effects. The primary outcome measure is tumor vascularization evaluated by DCE-US at specified intervals. Participants will be followed for up to 9 months post-treatment to assess sustained changes, with all procedures designed to comply with study protocols and informed consent requirements.

DCEUS to Assess Treatment Response to PRRT in GEP-NET