NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Using steroids and cross-linking to treat corneal ulcers

Official title: Steroids and Cross-linking for Ulcer Treatment (SCUT II)

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10666415 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at whether using steroids along with a special eye treatment can help people with serious vision loss from bacterial corneal ulcers heal better and see more clearly.

More Ulcer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2019
Project endJanuary 31, 2026
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$745,915
NIH project number5UG1EY028518-05
Project IDNIH-10666415 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates are individuals presenting with smear-positive bacterial corneal ulcers and moderate to severe vision loss.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-bacterial corneal ulcers or those with mild vision loss may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how combining steroids with corneal cross-linking can improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from bacterial corneal ulcers. The study will involve patients with moderate to severe vision loss due to these ulcers, who will be randomly assigned to receive one of three treatment options. By focusing on reducing inflammation and promoting healing, the research aims to enhance visual acuity and overall recovery. Participants will be monitored closely to assess the effectiveness of the treatments.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options that enhance vision recovery for patients with bacterial corneal ulcers.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the use of steroids in treating corneal ulcers, indicating that this approach may provide new insights into effective treatments.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Lietman, Thomas M — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Lietman, Thomas M

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.