Comparative Evaluation of MRI and MDCT for the Detection of Metastic Pulmonary Nodules
The gold standard for investigating the detection of pulmonary metastases is Multi-Detector
Computed Tomography (MDCT). Computed Tomography (CT) is routinely used in the staging of
pediatric patients with primary tumors which commonly metastasize to the lungs (with
approximate percentage incidence of pulmonary metastases at presentation) are Ewing's
sarcoma (15-20%), osteosarcoma (15-20%), Wilm's Tumor (10%), rhabdomyosarcoma (10%), and
hepatoblastoma (10%). However, CT scanning has two central limitations. Firstly, it carries
associated radiation risks. This risk is increased if multiple scans need to be performed
during treatment and follow up. This is of particular concern in children who frequently
have curable disease and may have years to live with the radiation risk. Secondly, CT is
limited in its ability to distinguish between benign and malignant nodules.
Recently, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the lung has been shown to be a feasible
alternative to CT for the detection of pulmonary metastases in adults with sensitivities and
specificities of over 90% for the detection of nodules 5mm or larger. It has also shown
promise in the characterization of nodules as benign or malignant. Since MRI does not
involve radiation, it may prove to be a preferable imaging technique for children. We wish
to evaluate the potential for MRI to complement or even replace CT in the imaging of
pulmonary metastatic disease in children.
Interventional
Allocation: Non-Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Efficacy Study, Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment, Masking: Open Label, Primary Purpose: Diagnostic
MRI sensitivity for the detection of pulmonary nodule(s) greater than 3mm in size (diameter) compared to CT
One hour
No
Paul Babyn, MD
Principal Investigator
The Hospital for Sick Children
Canada: Health Canada
1000010635
NCT00751920
August 2008
November 2009
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