NCT07444723 · National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Accuracy of 18F-Fluorocholine PET/MR and NeuroEXPLORER PET/CT Imaging for Localization of Parathyroid Tumors
What this study is about
Background: People have 4 parathyroid glands near the thyroid gland in the neck. Surgery is needed to remove a parathyroid gland that is too large or has a tumor. These glands can be in different places, so doctors use an imaging scan with contrast dye to help find them before surgery.
View original scientific description
Background: People have 4 parathyroid glands near the thyroid gland in the neck. Surgery is needed to remove a parathyroid gland that is too large or has a tumor. These glands can be in different places, so doctors use an imaging scan with contrast dye to help find them before surgery. Researchers want to know if a different type of scan and a new tracer can make it easier to find the tumors in the parathyroid glands. Objective: To see if PET/MRI and NeuroEXPLORER PET-CT scans with a 18F-FCH tracer are better than existing methods for finding the parathyroid glands. Eligibility: People aged 18 years or older who are scheduled for surgery to remove a parathyroid gland. Design: Participants will have up to 4 clinic or hospital visits. They will be screened. They will have a physical exam and give blood samples. Participants will have a 4-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT) scan. This is the current way doctors look for parathyroid glands. They will be injected with an iodine-based dye for the 4D-CT scan. They will lie on a padded table that slides into a donut-shaped machine. Participants will have a positron emission tomography (PET)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and NeuroEXPLORER PET-CT scan. For these scans, they will be injected with a radioactive tracer (18F-FCH). They will wait about 30 to 60 minutes for their body to absorb the tracer. They will lie on a padded table that slides into a tube. Their vital signs will be monitored during the scan. Participants will have surgery to remove the target gland. They may need to stay in the hospital for up to 3 nights. Participants will have a follow-up visit 6 months after the surgery. This may be done remotely....
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
- To be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all the following criteria:
- Aged 18-100 years old
- Willing to have parathyroidectomy at NIH Clinical Center
- Meets one of the following:
- Diagnosed with sporadic PHPT and is a potential candidate for parathyroidectomy.
- Diagnosed with any forms of heritable primary hyperparathyroidism (index presentation or recurrent disease) and is a potential candidate for parathyroidectomy. Participants clinically suspected of multi-gland disease (individuals with secondary/tertiary hyperparathyroidism) or germline predisposition PHPT syndrome are included in this cohort
- Suspected to have, or diagnosed with, parathyroid cancer and is a potential candidate for parathyroidectomy.
Exclusion criteria
- An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:
- Pregnancy or lactation
- Known allergic reactions to components of the 18F-Fluorocholine radiopharmaceutical.
- For persons able to become pregnant: unwilling to use highly effective contraception for at least two weeks prior to date of the first imaging scan through the date of the parathyroidectomy surgery
- Use of any investigational product or device, excluding F-DOPA scans, within 30 days prior to the 18F-FCH scan.
- Unable or unwilling to provide informed consent.
- Any other condition that would prevent the safe completion of study participation in the clinical opinion of the investigators.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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 Jun 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations