Pleuroscopy First Versus Thoracentesis First in Patients with Suspected Malignant Pleural Effusions
Launched by ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · Mar 19, 2025
Trial Information
Current as of July 22, 2025
Recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
This clinical trial is exploring the best way to diagnose patients who may have cancer-related fluid buildup in the chest, known as malignant pleural effusion. Researchers want to find out if starting with a procedure called pleuroscopy (which allows doctors to take a small tissue sample from the pleura, the lining around the lungs) is better than starting with thoracentesis (a procedure to remove fluid from the pleural space) in terms of getting an accurate diagnosis and starting treatment faster.
To participate in this trial, individuals must be at least 18 years old and have suspected malignant pleural effusion based on imaging tests like CT or PET scans. Participants should expect to undergo one of the two procedures as part of the study, which is currently recruiting patients. It’s important to note that those who cannot provide informed consent, have already had inconclusive tests, are critically ill, or are pregnant may not be eligible. This trial aims to help improve the speed and effectiveness of cancer diagnosis and treatment, ultimately benefiting patients facing this challenging condition.
Gender
ALL
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria:
- • Referral for diagnostic pleural procedure.
- • Age ≥ 18 years.
- • Suspected malignant pleural effusion (Suggestive radiologic appearance (based on computed tomography or positron emission tomography) OR suspected cancer with associated effusion.)
- Exclusion Criteria:
- • Inability to provide informed consent.
- • Needs emergent drainage.
- • Pleural effusion is known to be malignant.
- • Suspected transudative, infectious or inflammatory effusion etiology.
- • Having prior inconclusive/non-diagnostic thoracentesis or pleuroscopy.
- • Patient is deemed by the clinical team to be more appropriate for VATS biopsy.
- • Terminally ill patients in whom a diagnosis will not change management, or who is unlikely to be a candidate for oncological treatment due to significant comorbidities.
- • Pregnancy
About Icahn School Of Medicine At Mount Sinai
The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is a premier academic institution located in New York City, renowned for its commitment to advancing medical research, education, and patient care. As a leading sponsor of clinical trials, the institution leverages its state-of-the-art facilities and multidisciplinary expertise to drive innovative research initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes. With a focus on translational medicine, the Icahn School of Medicine collaborates with a diverse network of researchers, clinicians, and industry partners to explore novel therapies and interventions across a wide range of medical disciplines. Its rigorous scientific approach and dedication to ethical standards position it as a trusted leader in the clinical research landscape.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
New York, New York, United States
New York, New York, United States
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Udit Chaddha, MBBS
Principal Investigator
MOUNT SINAI HOSPITAL
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported