Radiation necrosis is a frequent and challenging complication in patients treated with radiotherapy for brain tumours such as glioblastoma, brain metastases, astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas. Bevacizumab (Avastin) is increasingly used as a therapeutic option, but systematic volumetric imaging data are limited. Evidence from a randomized controlled trial and several retrospective cohorts suggests that bevacizumab can reduce lesion volume and improve neurological symptoms in many patients with cerebral radiation necrosis.PMC+2SpringerLink+2

In this retrospective imaging project, we will analyse MRI scans before and after completion of bevacizumab treatment and quantify treatment response. The main focus will be on volumetry of (1) contrast-enhancing lesions on T1-weighted post-contrast images and (2) perilesional T2/FLAIR hyperintensity as a surrogate of edema and radiation necrosis. The data will contribute to a planned publication; co-authorship for the participating student is explicitly intended.

Main student tasks

• Identify and collect pre- and post-treatment MRI scans (GBM, brain metastases, astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas)

• Perform semi-automatic volumetry of contrast enhancement (T1 + gadolinium) and T2/FLAIR hyperintensity

• Document results in a structured database (e.g. Excel)

• Optional: literature search and support with basic data analysis/figures

Requirements for students

• Medical student (ideally ≥ 7th–8th semester) or related life-science programme

• Interest in neuro-oncology and neuroimaging

• Reliability and structured, independent working style

• Basic experience with Office/Excel; previous experience with MRI analysis software is helpful but not mandatory (training will be provided)

• Good command of English; German is an advantage but not strictly required

Project type & timeframe

• Type: Clinical research, retrospective imaging project

• Location: Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Düsseldorf (on-site; some work may be done remotely after initial training)

• Estimated project duration: approx. 4 weeks full-time equivalent (can be extended depending on interest and availability)

Supervision / contact

• Prof. Dr. med. Sajjad Muhammad, Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Düsseldorf

• Dr. med. David Wasilewski, Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Düsseldorf

For questions regarding the project, students may contact:[email protected] or [email protected]