Pre-Operative Staging of Pancreatic Cancer Using Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Magnetic Resonance Imaging (SPIO MRI)

Improved Pre-Operative Staging of Pancreatic Cancer Using Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Magnetic Resonance Imaging (SPIO MRI)

The purpose of this research study is to see if a specific kind of MRI, called Ultrasmall Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Magnetic Resonance Imaging (USPIO MRI), which uses an FDA-approved therapeutic agent(Feraheme) to see if it is able to identify small and otherwise undetectable lymph node metastases in people who have pancreatic cancer and are scheduled for surgical resection.

• On the first day, study participants will undergo 2 MRI examinations. A scan will be done prior to administration of the contrast agent (Feraheme) and then a second scan immediately after administration. On the second day, study participants will be asked to return for a third MRI.
• All MRI scans will be done at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Locally resectable pancreatic mass present on one or more pre-operative imaging modalities
• Must demonstrate no evidence of distant metastases as assessed by chest/abdomen/pelvis CT scan
• Deemed eligible for resection with curative intent by a treating surgeon who is listed as an investigator on this study
• 18 years of age or older
• No uncontrolled serious medical or psychiatric illness
• Women of childbearing potential must not be pregnant or lactating

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known allergy to iron or dextran
• Pregnant or lactating
• Counter-indication to MRI, such as the presence of metallic prostheses or implanted metal device
• Sickle cell disease or hemoglobinopathy