Analyzing blood markers for diagnosing strokes and TIAs
Extracellular Vesicle Surface Markers In Acute Cerebrovascular Syndromes.
This study is testing whether certain blood markers can help doctors better diagnose minor strokes and TIAs in patients.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Ospedale Civico, Lugano Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Lugano, Ticino) |
| Trial ID | NCT06319742 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study focuses on characterizing extracellular vesicles (EVs) in serum samples from patients suspected of having minor strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). The study employs advanced techniques such as nanoparticle tracking analysis, western blotting, and flow cytometry to evaluate the size and concentration of EVs and their surface markers. By identifying specific biomarkers associated with brain ischemia, the research aims to improve diagnostic accuracy for conditions that mimic strokes. The ultimate goal is to provide clinicians with better tools for distinguishing between ischemic and non-ischemic events.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who present with symptoms of suspected minor stroke or TIA within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Not a fit: Patients with ocular TIAs, contraindications for MRI, or those with certain acute or chronic inflammatory diseases may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate and timely diagnoses of strokes and TIAs, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been investigations into biomarkers for TIA diagnosis, this specific approach using EVs is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Affected by: I. Suspect ischemic minor stroke (acute loss of focal cerebral function of presumed vascular etiology and NIHSS ≤327, 28) within 48 hours of symptoms onset or II. TIA (defined as the acute onset of focal neurological symptoms lasting \<24 h and presumed to be caused by brain ischemia at the time of referral)19 III. Symptoms mimicking I. or II. with but with high suspition of a non-ischemic condition being the cause of the event; 2) age ≥18 years; 3) if cerebral magnetic resonance imaging will be performed within 48-72 hours from admission; 4) if baseline CT/MRI is without hemorrhage; 5) if informed consent obtained. Exclusion Criteria: 1. ocular TIA (amaurosis fugax); 2. contraindications for MRI; 3. pregnancy; 4. concomitant acute/chronic inflammatory disease (e.g., infections, autoimmune disease); 5. concomitant hematological diseases; 6. Central Nervous System infection within 30 days; 7. serious head trauma within 30 days; 8. major surgery within 90 days.
Where this trial is running
Lugano, Ticino
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Ospedale Civico — Lugano, Ticino, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Carlo Walter Cereda, PI
- Email: carlo.cereda@eoc.ch
- Phone: +41918116691
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.