1 research outputs found
Imaging standardization in metastatic colorectal cancer : a joint EORTC-ESOI-ESGAR expert consensus recommendation
Background: Treatment monitoring in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) relies on imaging
to evaluate the tumor burden. Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) provide
a framework on reporting and interpretation of imaging findings yet offer no guidance on a
standardized imaging protocol tailored to mCRC patients. Imaging protocol heterogeneity
remains a challenge for the reproducibility of conventional imaging endpoints and is an
obstacle for research on novel imaging endpoints.
Patients and methods: Acknowledging the recently highlighted potential of radiomics and
artificial intelligence (AI) tools as decision support for patient care in mCRC, a multidisciplinary,
international, and expert panel of imaging specialists was formed to find consensus on mCRC
imaging protocols using the Delphi method.
Results: Under the guidance of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of
Cancer (EORTC) Imaging and Gastrointestinal Tract Cancer Groups, the European Society of
Oncologic Imaging (ESOI) and the European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal
Radiology (ESGAR), the EORTC-ESOI-ESGAR core imaging protocol was identified.
Conclusion: This consensus protocol attempts to promote standardization and to diminish
variations in patient preparation, scan acquisition and scan reconstruction. We anticipate that
this standardization will increase reproducibility of radiomics and AI studies and serve as a
catalyst for future research on imaging endpoints. For ongoing and future mCRC trials, we
encourage principal investigators to support the dissemination of these imaging standards
across recruiting centers.peer-reviewe