The LUMINA study

Toward the end of 2024 Waikato Hospital obtained approvals to become a referral site for a Mercy Radiology (Epsom, Auckland) led research study. This is called the “LUMINA study” and is evaluating a new type of CT scan for women diagnosed with a locally advanced type of breast cancer called invasive lobular breast cancer. The new type of CT scan is called a FAPI PET (Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor Positron Emission Tomography) CT scan.

Invasive lobular breast cancer arises in the lobules of the breast and is more difficult to see on standard imaging such as mammogram, ultrasound or standard CT scans. Using a “one size fits all” radiology approach may not stage invasive lobular breast cancer accurately. Staging determines treatment decisions, for example, whether chemotherapy or hormonal therapy is given before or after surgery.

Dr Remy Lim, Radiologist & Medical Director of Mercy Radiology in Auckland is lead researcher for the Lumina study. The study is funded by a Breast Cancer Foundation NZ grant.