Understanding Imaging Techniques and Future Perspectives in Lung Cancer Clinical Trials
Imaging plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of lung cancer, which remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Radiological methods like CT (including low-dose) and PET, have become essential for early detection, staging, and ongoing monitoring of lung cancer patients. Recent advancements in imaging technology and artificial intelligence are further enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment personalization. Additionally, new perspectives on neoadjuvant therapy and imaging biomarkers are shaping the future of lung cancer clinical trials.
Lung cancer is the most common cancer in men (14.3% of all cancers) and the third most common in women (8.4%). The two major types are small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), with NSCLC accounting for over 85% of cases worldwide. NSCLC comprises distinct subtypes identified through histologic classification, molecular pathology, PD-L1 expression levels, and tumor mutation burden. The treatment landscape for resectable early-stage NSCLC is evolving, influenced by promising results from randomized trials, with immunotherapies enhancing immune responses in patients with high PD-L1 expression or tumor mutational burden, while targeted therapies improve patient outcomes by addressing specific genetic mutations.
Recent clinical trials emphasize the significance of low-dose CT screening for early lung cancer detection, offering improved sensitivity over traditional chest radiography. Clinical trials have been using RECIST for registration purposes; however, PET/CT, which is often underutilized in this context, offers a more precise evaluation of metastatic lymph nodes and more effectively predicts disease progression and survival. Besides RECIST and iRECIST, metabolic response criteria, such as PERCIST and iPERCIST, leverage semi-quantitative parameters like SUVs, metabolic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis, serving as valuable assessment criteria and tools in clinical trial strategies.
As emphasized by Dr. Manish Sharma, Chief Scientific Officer at Imaging Endpoints, embracing innovative endpoints and imaging biomarkers in advanced-stage NSCLC clinical trials can significantly advance treatment strategies. By incorporating quantitative radiomics and advanced imaging techniques, we can deepen our understanding of treatment responses beyond conventional criteria.
With a strong track record of improving trial outcomes by implementing the right strategy, our team specializes in optimizing imaging charter and assessment criteria for Lung Cancer clinical trials. To connect with our experienced medical and scientific professionals to explore how our tailored imaging solutions can support your Lung Cancer clinical trials.
