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Dr. Jennifer Permuth, Vice Chair of Research in the Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, co-founded the Florida Pancreas Collaborative (FPC), the first statewide initiative involving academic cancer centers and community hospitals that are dedicated to advancing pancreatic cancer research. The FPC is unique in collecting data, biospecimens and images from a breadth of malignant, pre-malignant, or benign pancreatic conditions.

Dr. Permuth is leading a study (Clinical Trial 20105) on early detection and prevention related to intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs). IPMNs are cystic precursor lesions to pancreatic cancer that are incidentally detected by imaging in more than 500,000 Americans each year. Once detected, existing imaging modalities and molecular markers cannot reliably distinguish low-risk IPMNs that merit surveillance from high-risk IPMNs that warrant surgical resection, posing a great clinical challenge. 

The objective of this study is to develop a method for discovering a noninvasive biomarker and imaging approach that generates greater accuracy in predicting IPMN pathology than conventional radiologic and clinical features. In doing this, providers may enhance clinical decision-making to result in better outcomes for patients at-risk to harbor or developing early PC.

Aims of this study include:

1. Determine the diagnostic performance and stability of preoperative CT radiomic features (compared to conventional radiologic features) in predicting IPMN pathology in - a) a retrospective series and b) an independent, multi-institutional prospective series.

2. Develop clinical decision-making models for predicting IPMN pathology.

3. To conduct the first radiogenomic analyses of IPMNs by evaluating the relationship between radiomic features and tissue and circulating levels of candidate biomarkers.

If you are interested in learning more about clinical trials, our clinical trial navigators can discuss your options and recommend opportunities that may be suitable for you. Call 813-745-6100 or 1-800-679-0775 (toll-free) or submit a clinical trials inquiry form.