Optimizing Diagnostic Care for CUP

Status: Ongoing.

The multidisciplinary CUP research group at the Netherlands Cancer Institute (Antoni van Leeuwenhoek) is committed to improving the diagnosis of cancer of unknown primary (CUP). Our work focuses on redefining diagnostic processes and investigating how the integration of various imaging modalities and other diagnostic techniques can lead to more accurate diagnoses and, ultimately, better care for CUP patients.

Our ongoing and recently completed research projects examine how disease patterns observed on PET/CT scans can guide the search for the underlying primary tumor. We are also investigating whether incorporating whole-body MRI provides additional benefits for specific patient subgroups. Furthermore, we are working on implementing structured diagnostic workflows and optimizing the multidisciplinary management of CUP cases.

In addition, we are exploring the use of advanced image analysis powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to deepen our understanding of the complex nature of CUP. By identifying patterns of disease, we aim to enhance diagnostic accuracy and yield.

Through these efforts, our goal is to develop better diagnostic strategies for CUP, enabling both patients and clinicians to navigate this challenging condition more effectively.

Links to recently published research works:

Willemse et al. Identifying the primary tumour in patients with cancer of unknown primary (CUP) using [18F]FDG PET/CT: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2024; 52:225-236 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11599304/pdf/259_2024_Article_6860.pdf

Willemse et al. Added value of body MRI to detect primary abdominal malignancies in the diagnostic work-up of patients with adenocarcinoma of unknown primary. Eur Radiol 2024 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00330-024-11149-w