Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational

How ethnic background affects facial features in rare genetic disorders

Official title: DeciFace: Decipher the Influence of Ethnic Backgrounds on the Facial Dysmorphic Features of Rare Mendelian Disorders

Run by National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT05913843 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This project will test whether automated facial-analysis tools can recognize facial signs of rare genetic conditions equally well across different ethnic backgrounds in people with suspected genetic disorders.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
SexAll
Enrollment100 (estimated)
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Taipei)
StatusRecruiting
StartedNovember 12, 2025
Main results expectedMarch 31, 2029
Study endsMarch 31, 2029
Registry record updatedSeptember 21, 2026
Trial IDNCT05913843 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

People of any age with abnormal facial features who are suspected of having a genetic disorder and who can cooperate with taking and sharing standardized facial photographs are ideal candidates.

Probably not a fit

Patients without noticeable facial dysmorphism, those whose conditions do not affect facial features, or individuals unable to provide usable photos are unlikely to benefit from this approach.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational project collects facial photographs from people who have unusual facial features and are suspected of having a rare genetic disorder. Investigators will use automated facial-analysis tools (examples include platforms like Face2Gene and GestaltMatcher) to quantify facial dysmorphisms and compare patterns across participants of different ethnic backgrounds. The work aims to identify whether ethnicity changes algorithm performance or the appearance of characteristic facial features, and to create a more inclusive reference for automated recognition. Data will be analyzed to explore algorithmic biases and to propose adjustments that could improve diagnostic support for underrepresented populations.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the work could help clinicians diagnose rare genetic disorders faster and more fairly across diverse ethnic groups by improving automated facial-analysis tools.

How similar studies have gone: Prior work using automated facial-analysis tools has shown promise for recognizing some genetic syndromes, but the effects of ethnic diversity on performance remain incompletely studied.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Cases with abnormal appearance of clinical symptoms and suspected genetic diseases

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to cooperate with the examiner

Where it's running

  • National Taiwan University Hospital
    Taipei, Taiwan
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Ni-Chung Lee, M.D., Ph.D. — National Taiwan University Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Ni-Chung Lee, M.D., Ph.D.
  • Email: ncleentu@ntu.edu.tw
  • Phone: 886-2-23123456

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
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.