Development and Validation of a Deep Learning Model to Predict Distant Metastases in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Using Whole Slide Imaging and MRI

Launched by SUN YAT-SEN UNIVERSITY · Feb 14, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new artificial intelligence (AI) model designed to help predict whether nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a type of cancer that affects the area behind the nose and throat, has spread to other parts of the body. The researchers are using advanced imaging techniques, like pathology slides and MRI scans, to train the AI model. By doing this, they aim to identify which patients are at high risk for distant metastasis (where cancer spreads to other areas) right at the time of their initial diagnosis. This way, the model can help ensure that patients who need further tests, like PET/CT scans, receive them while avoiding unnecessary tests for those who are at low risk.

To participate in the trial, individuals must have a confirmed diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and be in advanced stages (specifically, T3-4 or N2-3). Participants will undergo various imaging tests to assess their condition. The goal of this study is not only to improve patient care by identifying high-risk individuals more accurately but also to save medical resources and reduce costs for patients. If you or someone you know is diagnosed with NPC and meets the eligibility criteria, this trial may provide an opportunity to contribute to important cancer research.

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ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • A. The primary lesion was pathologically confirmed as nasopharyngeal carcinoma (WHO classification is I, II and III); B. The stage was T3-4 or N2-3, and the nasopharynx + neck MRI plain scan and enhanced scan were performed to confirm the nasopharyngeal and cervical lymph node lesions, and PET/CT or conventional examination (chest CT plain scan + enhanced scan, upper abdominal CT or MRI plain scan + enhanced scan or abdominal color Doppler ultrasound or ultrasound angiography, and whole body bone imaging) was performed to screen for distant metastases.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Previous history of other malignant tumors (such as other head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, thyroid cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, etc.).