18F-FAPI-74 Imaging for Heart and Lung Disease

This trial tests a new tracer, 18F-FAPI-74, which might help doctors detect early-stage fibrosis (scar tissue) in the heart and lungs through imaging scans. Early detection of fibrosis could prevent more serious health issues later. The trial seeks individuals 18 and older with heart or lung disease that may lead to scarring and who have had prior imaging of these organs. Participants will visit the clinic six times over two years and undergo various scans and tests. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to a potentially groundbreaking medical advancement.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team or your doctor.

Studies have shown that 18F-FAPI-74, a new imaging tracer, is generally safe for people. Research indicates that this tracer can help doctors detect early signs of scarring in the heart and lungs. Detecting these signs early is crucial, as it might help prevent serious damage later on.

Researchers are excited about 18F-FAPI-74 imaging for heart and lung diseases because it represents a novel approach to diagnosing and understanding these conditions. Unlike traditional imaging methods like CT or MRI that primarily show anatomical structures, 18F-FAPI-74 targets fibroblast activation protein, which is often present in diseased tissues. This allows for more precise detection of disease activity at the cellular level. By offering a clearer picture of the disease process, this imaging technique could lead to more targeted and effective treatment strategies in the future.

This trial will use 18F-FAPI-74 PET imaging to study various heart and lung conditions. Studies have shown that 18F-FAPI-74 is promising in detecting early scar tissue changes in these diseases. For heart issues, research indicates that 18F-FAPI-74 effectively images the activation of cells leading to early scarring. In lung diseases, this tracer has proven more accurate than traditional methods in predicting worsening scarring. For high blood pressure in the lungs, 18F-FAPI-74 PET imaging has emerged as a promising noninvasive tool for early detection of changes. Overall, initial findings suggest that 18F-FAPI-74 may help detect scarring before it causes serious damage, making it a potentially valuable tool for early diagnosis and management. Participants in this trial will undergo FAPI/PET/CT imaging for conditions such as interstitial lung disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and others.¹²³⁵⁶