Identifying predictors of flare in children with spondyloarthritis
Official title: Immunological, serologic, and imaging biomarker predictors of flare in pediatric spondyloarthritis
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11051161 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific blood tests and MRI results can help predict flare-ups in kids with spondyloarthritis, so families can make better choices about their child's treatment and safely reduce the use of strong medications that might have side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2021 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $364,553 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR079822-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051161 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with spondyloarthritis who are currently receiving or have received TNF inhibitors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spondyloarthritis who are not on TNF inhibitors or those with other forms of arthritis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain biomarkers and imaging results can predict flare-ups in children with spondyloarthritis. By analyzing blood samples and MRI scans, the study aims to determine whether subclinical inflammation indicates a risk for flare or is simply benign. The goal is to improve treatment strategies, particularly regarding the safe de-escalation of biologic therapies like TNF inhibitors, which can have significant side effects. Families will be provided with better information to make informed decisions about their child's treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment plans that minimize unnecessary medication exposure and its associated risks for children with spondyloarthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers and imaging to guide treatment decisions in other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in pediatric spondyloarthritis.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiss, Pamela Fitch — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Weiss, Pamela Fitch
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.