NCT05704062 · Corewell Health East
Quantitative MRI Assessment of Breast Cancer Therapy Response
What this study is about
The goal of this observational study is to investigate and validate multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modalities for assessment of breast cancer response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in a multi-site and multi-MRI scanner platform setting.
View original scientific description
The goal of this observational study is to investigate and validate multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modalities for assessment of breast cancer response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in a multi-site and multi-MRI scanner platform setting. This study is conducted at Oregon Health \& Science University (OHSU), University of Washington (UW), and University of Iowa (UI) using Siemens, Philips, and General Electric MRI scanners, respectively. MRI is a type of scan that uses a very strong magnet and no radiation to take very detailed pictures of parts of the body. MRI is often used as standard of care to take pictures of breast tumor(s) before and after chemotherapy treatment in order to measure the tumor size changes in response to treatment, and in order to plan for surgery. MRI is used because the images it takes are very clear and the borders of the tumor can be measured very accurately. However the tumor size alone is often not a good early indicator of whether or not the tumor responds to treatment. Tumor size change usually happens late during the period of treatment, and tumor size measured with MRI after treatment can overestimate or underestimate the residual cancer. This makes it difficult to do the right surgical planning. In addition to measuring tumor size, the MRI scans in this research study will also measure changes in tumor blood vessels and the number of cancer cells per unit of tumor volume. The purpose of this study is to see whether MRI measurements of these functional tumor properties provide better early prediction and evaluation of breast cancer response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy than tumor size measurement. This is an observational study because the MRI procedures are not expected to have an effect on health outcomes. Eligible participants on this study are receiving standard of care neoadjuvant treatment for their cancer.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patients with histologically confirmed breast cancer who are scheduled to receive standard of care neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to surgical management
- No contraindication for an MRI exam
- Normal kidney functional for receiving a standard dose of gadolinium-based MRI contrast agent through IV injection
- Not pregnant
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document. A signed study-specific informed consent must be obtained prior to any study specific procedures
Exclusion criteria
- Patients who would be normally excluded from undergoing an MRI examination - patients with a pacemaker, aneurysm clip, or any other condition that would warrant avoidance of a strong magnetic field
- Patients who are unable to cooperate for an MRI exam lasting about 45 min, and/or have known allergic reaction to gadolinium-based contrast agent
- Severe claustrophobia precluding subject from undergoing MRI
- Patients with acute or chronic kidney dysfunction (estimated glomerular filtration rate \[eGFR\] \< 60 ml/min/1.73 m\^2 as calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease \[MDRD\] equation)
- Pregnant participants are excluded from this study because it is difficult for them to lie prone on the MRI table and because of possible risk to the fetus
- Cognitively impaired
Where
- Iowa City, Iowa
- Royal Oak, Michigan
- Portland, Oregon
- Seattle, Washington
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations