Analyzing tear samples to identify eye surface conditions
Proteomic and Metabolomic Lacrimal Fingerprint in Diverse Pathologies of the Ocular Surface
This study is testing tear samples from patients with eye surface conditions like dry eye and allergies to see if they can identify unique markers for these issues.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Montreal, Quebec and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04198740 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to analyze tear samples from patients with various ocular surface pathologies, including dry eye syndrome and allergic conjunctivitis, using mass spectrometry. The goal is to establish a 'lacrimal fingerprint' for these conditions and create a normative baseline for comparison. Patients will have their tears collected via Schirmer strips during regular clinic visits at the ophthalmology department of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal. The collected samples will be sent to the Université du Québec à Montréal for detailed proteomic and metabolomic analysis.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults with healthy corneas or those diagnosed with specific ocular surface pathologies.
Not a fit: Patients under 18 years old or those unable to provide informed consent will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic techniques for ocular surface diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific analysis of lacrimal fingerprints in diverse ocular conditions is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with healthy corneas or suffering from one of these pathologies: Dry eye syndrome; Infectious keratitis and/or conjunctivitis; Mucous membrane pemphigoid; Allergic conjunctivitis. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients younger than 18 years old; * Patients incapable of giving informed consent.
Where this trial is running
Montreal, Quebec and 1 other locations
- Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) - Department of Chemistry — Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Active_not_recruiting)
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) — Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Marie-Claude Robert, MD, M.Sc — Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM)
- Study coordinator: Marie-Claude Robert, MD, M.Sc
- Email: marie-claude.robert.2@umontreal.ca
- Phone: 514-890-8278
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.