Enhanced Screening for Liver Cancer

This trial tests two methods to screen for liver cancer in individuals with liver damage or chronic hepatitis B. One group will undergo an ultrasound and blood test every six months, while the other group will receive a shorter MRI (Abbreviated MRI) and the same blood test on the same schedule. It targets those with cirrhosis (a type of liver damage) or chronic hepatitis B who are at high risk for liver cancer. Participants should not have a prior diagnosis of liver cancer or be currently suspected of having it. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the effectiveness of the screening methods in an initial, smaller group of people.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that both abbreviated MRI (aMRI) and ultrasound are safe methods for liver cancer screening. Although studies do not provide detailed safety data for aMRI, it is generally considered safe and is gaining popularity for effectively detecting early signs of liver cancer.

Ultrasound is a well-established and widely used method for liver cancer screening, with a strong safety record. Some studies have noted that it might be less effective in certain conditions, such as cirrhosis, but it remains a safe and common choice for many patients.

Researchers are excited about the Enhanced Screening for Liver Cancer trial because it explores two innovative methods that could improve early detection. The abbreviated MRI (aMRI) offers a quicker and potentially more detailed scan of the liver compared to traditional ultrasound, which is the current standard for liver cancer screening. This could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of liver abnormalities. Additionally, both aMRI and ultrasound screenings include serum AFP testing, a blood test that can help identify liver cancer markers. By comparing these methods, researchers aim to determine the most effective screening approach, potentially improving outcomes for patients.

Research has shown that the abbreviated MRI (aMRI), which participants in this trial may receive, effectively detects early-stage liver cancer, known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This means aMRI can accurately identify cancer when present and avoid false positives when it is not. Studies have found that aMRI surpasses ultrasound in detecting small liver tumors. However, ultrasound, another screening method tested in this trial, remains a reliable and widely used method for liver cancer screening. It has effectively identified various types of HCC, improving survival chances when cancer is caught early. Both aMRI and ultrasound are used to assess liver health, especially in individuals with conditions like cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B.²⁶⁷⁸⁹