In short
There is currently 1 ongoing clinical trial investigating new approaches to detecting heart inflammation in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis. This trial is exploring advanced imaging techniques that may improve diagnosis and understanding of this condition, where clusters of inflammatory cells form in the heart tissue.
Clinical trial locations
Detecting Heart Inflammation in Cardiac Sarcoidosis Patients Using 68Ga-NOTA-Anti-MMR-VHH2 PET-CT Imaging
This clinical trial is testing a new way to detect inflammation in the hearts of people with cardiac sarcoidosis. The study takes place in Belgium and uses an innovative imaging approach that may help doctors better visualize areas of the heart affected by this condition.
Main inclusion criteria:
- Patients must be at least 18 years old
- A confirmed or probable diagnosis of the condition, either through tissue biopsy or meeting specific diagnostic guidelines
- Recent imaging tests must be available, specifically an 18F-FDG PET/CT scan and a 13N-NH3 PET/CT scan, both completed within one month before joining the study
- Participants of childbearing potential must agree to use effective birth control during the study
Main exclusion criteria:
- Patients who do not meet the criteria for a probable diagnosis
- Those outside the specified age range for the study
- Individuals who do not belong to the clinical trial groups included in the research
Focus and goal of the trial:
The study aims to evaluate whether a new imaging tracer can effectively identify areas of inflammation in the heart. Participants will undergo an initial assessment that includes reviewing their recent diagnostic images. They will then receive an intravenous injection of the investigational tracer, followed by a PET-CT scan. This imaging technique is designed to highlight specific immune cells called macrophages that are present in inflamed heart tissue.
The scan looks for areas where the tracer accumulates in a focal or patchy pattern, which indicates the presence of inflammatory lesions. Throughout the study, researchers will monitor participants for any side effects and compare the new imaging results with other standard diagnostic tests to determine how well this approach works. The trial is expected to conclude by June 30, 2026.
Investigational drug:
The study uses 68Ga-NOTA-Anti-MMR-VHH2, a specialized imaging agent administered through injection. This radiopharmaceutical is designed to bind to specific receptors on immune cells in the heart, making them visible on PET scans. This helps doctors visualize inflammation and better understand how the condition affects heart tissue.
Summary
Currently, there is one active clinical trial for cardiac sarcoidosis, located in Belgium. This trial represents an important step forward in improving diagnostic imaging for this condition. The focus is on developing better ways to detect and monitor heart inflammation using advanced PET-CT imaging technology with a novel tracer. This research may eventually lead to more accurate diagnosis and improved treatment planning for patients living with cardiac sarcoidosis.
