Using imaging technology to measure skin changes in scleroderma

Assessing spatial frequency domain imaging as an objective quantification of longitudinal skin changes in scleroderma

['FUNDING_R01'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS · NIH-11048278

This study is testing a new way to take pictures of the skin to help people with scleroderma see how their skin is changing over time, making it easier for doctors to track their condition and how well treatments are working.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11048278 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a new imaging technique called spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) to objectively measure skin changes in patients with scleroderma, an autoimmune disease. The study aims to provide a more accurate and reliable method for assessing skin fibrosis compared to traditional methods, which can be subjective and inconsistent. By evaluating the effectiveness of SFDI, the researchers hope to improve monitoring of skin disease progression and response to treatment. Patients will undergo non-invasive imaging to capture detailed information about their skin condition over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with scleroderma who experience skin changes associated with the condition.

Not a fit: Patients with scleroderma who do not exhibit significant skin changes or those with advanced disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better monitoring and treatment options for patients with scleroderma, ultimately improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using similar imaging techniques, suggesting that this approach could be effective in quantifying skin changes in scleroderma.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, autoimmune disorder, autoimmunity disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.