Using light to identify bruises in children
The Objective Identification of Bruising in Children using Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy
['FUNDING_R21'] · MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN · NIH-10785645
This study is looking at a new way to help doctors accurately identify bruises in babies and kids, especially when there are concerns about child abuse, so they can make better decisions and provide the right support for children, no matter their skin tone.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10785645 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy as a tool to objectively diagnose bruising in infants and children. The goal is to improve the accuracy of identifying bruises, especially in cases of suspected child abuse, where bruising is a critical indicator. The study aims to address the challenges of subjective assessments that can lead to misdiagnosis, particularly in children with darker skin tones. By providing immediate and precise evaluations, this method could enhance the decision-making process for medical evaluations and reports to child protective services.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and children under the age of 11 who may present with bruising and are suspected of experiencing physical abuse.
Not a fit: Patients who do not exhibit bruising or are over the age of 11 may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely identification of bruising in children, improving the safety and welfare of vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of reflectance spectroscopy is a novel approach in this context, similar technologies have shown promise in other diagnostic applications.
Where this research is happening
MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES
- MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN — MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NARANG, SANDEEP — MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN
- Study coordinator: NARANG, SANDEEP
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 below.