Analyzing Tongue Color and Depression-Anxiety Scores in Acupuncture Patients
Machine Learning Analysis of Lingual Colorimetry and MADRS Score in Acupuncture Patients: a Prospective Observational Study
This study looks at whether the color of patients' tongues can help us understand their anxiety and depression levels while they receive acupuncture treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 350 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Centre Hospitalier de Narbonne Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Narbonne) |
| Trial ID | NCT06899490 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the relationship between tongue colorimetry and anxiety-depression scores in patients receiving acupuncture. Participants will have their tongues photographed using standardized techniques and complete the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) questionnaire. The study aims to analyze the data with machine learning methods to explore potential correlations, which could lead to a non-invasive diagnostic tool for assessing anxiety and depression. The approach utilizes everyday technology, making it accessible for clinical practice.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are French-speaking adults aged 18 and older who are consulting for acupuncture with anxiety symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with psychosis, substance abuse issues, or those who cannot complete the MADRS questionnaire may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel, non-invasive method for early detection and monitoring of anxiety and depression in patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of machine learning in psychological assessments is emerging, this specific approach combining tongue colorimetry and MADRS scores is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged 18 years or older * Native French speakers * No medical conditions or medications affecting tongue coloration * Consulting for acupuncture with symptoms involving an anxious component Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of psychosis or substance abuse * Eating or taking medication within one hour before the examination * Refusal to complete the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) questionnaire * Refusal to have their tongue photographed
Where this trial is running
Narbonne
- Cabinet Médical d'Acupuncture — Narbonne, France (Recruiting)
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.