Recruiting

Comparing two imaging tests to detect liver cancer in uncertain nodules

Plain-English translation of NCT06184152 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2026 · Translation generated August 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether contrast-enhanced ultrasound and abbreviated MRI scans can reliably detect early hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) in patients who have cirrhosis and nodules on their liver that are unclear or suspicious. Researchers want to understand which imaging method—or combination of both—works best at catching liver cancer early, when it may be easier to treat.

Many people with cirrhosis develop uncertain nodules on their liver that might be cancer, but doctors aren't always sure which imaging test is most accurate for detecting early-stage cancer. This study exists to compare these two imaging approaches so doctors can make better, faster decisions about patient care.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have cirrhosis (liver scarring) from any cause, classified as Child A or B
you have at least one unclear or suspicious nodule on your liver seen on CT, MRI, or ultrasound
you do not currently have a diagnosis of liver cancer
you are 18 years old or older

You likely don't qualify if…

you have had a liver transplant
you have been diagnosed with liver cancer or other liver cancer types like cholangiocarcinoma
you have active cancer elsewhere in your body
you have medical devices that are not compatible with MRI, or you have severe claustrophobia that would prevent you from having an MRI
you have serious health conditions that limit your life expectancy and make monitoring unlikely to help you

What participation looks like

You would receive both an ultrasound with contrast dye and an MRI scan, preferably on the same day or within 14 days of each other. Depending on your nodule type, you would repeat these scans every 3 to 6 months for up to 2 years, or until your nodule becomes clearly benign, develops into cancer, or the study ends. The researchers are trying to minimize your burden by scheduling both scans close together and monitoring you over time to see which imaging method catches cancer most reliably.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 5, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

United States

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas