Exploring biomarkers and lung damage in ARDS patients

Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema (Macklin Effect), Quantitative Imaging Analysis and CytoKine Profiling to Predict Lung Frailty IN ARDS

Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele · NCT06001645

This study is trying to see if certain signs in the lungs and blood can help identify ARDS patients, especially those with COVID-19, who are at risk of lung damage from treatment, so that doctors can better manage their care.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment110 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversità Vita-Salute San Raffaele (other)
Locations4 sites (Cagliari and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06001645 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the occurrence of barotrauma in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), particularly focusing on those with COVID-19. It aims to validate the Macklin effect as a predictor of barotrauma and to analyze inflammatory profiles through blood and bronchoalveolar fluid collection. The study will also utilize chest CT scans to assess lung composition and develop a management algorithm tailored for ARDS patients at high risk of barotrauma. By identifying high-risk features early, the study seeks to improve individualized patient management.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients diagnosed with ARDS who meet the Berlin criteria and require ICU admission.

Not a fit: Patients with poor quality imaging due to motion or respiratory artifacts may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management strategies for ARDS patients, potentially reducing the incidence of barotrauma and associated mortality.

How similar studies have performed: While the Macklin effect has been identified in COVID-19 ARDS, this study aims to confirm its predictive role in non-COVID-19 ARDS, making it a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Clinical and radiological signs of ARDS, according to Berlin criteria, requiring ICU admission;
* Obtain duly signed informed consent
* Availability of at least one chest CT scan during hospital stay

Exclusion Criteria:

• Poor quality imaging (because of motion/respiratory artefacts).

Where this trial is running

Cagliari and 3 other locations

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Barotrauma, Mechanical Ventilation, Intensive Care, Respiratory Failure, Pneumothorax, Macklin effect

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.