Identifying biomarkers for microbial keratitis
Microbial Keratitis Sampling for Biomarker Discovery
This study is trying to find specific markers in tears and eye samples from people with microbial keratitis to help improve how we diagnose and treat this serious eye infection.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Edinburgh Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edinburgh, Scotland) |
| Trial ID | NCT05888883 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to discover prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers related to microbial keratitis by analyzing tear and ocular swab samples from affected patients and healthy controls. The study will focus on understanding the ocular microenvironment and the microorganisms present in patients with microbial keratitis. Participants will have their tears collected and conjunctival swabs taken during their treatment course to facilitate this analysis. The ultimate goal is to improve diagnostics and treatment strategies for this serious eye condition.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 16 and older with a new infective keratitis in one eye.
Not a fit: Patients with suspected viral infections or those presenting with keratitis in both eyes may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment options for patients suffering from microbial keratitis.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of studying biomarkers in microbial keratitis is innovative, similar studies in other infectious conditions have shown promise in identifying critical diagnostic markers.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 16 years old or older. * Able to provide informed consent for themselves. * Patient group: Appearances typical of a new infective keratitis of the cornea, in one eye only. * Control group: healthy volunteers with no recent history (within 1 year) of MK or inflammatory eye condition. Exclusion Criteria: * \<16 years old. * Not able to provide consent for themselves. * Patients with suspected viral rather than bacterial/fungal corneal infection, such as herpetic keratitis. * Patients who present with MK in both eyes. * Control group: Individuals receiving topical steroid or antimicrobial therapy to the eye, or any other form of systemic immunosuppression/antimicrobial drug.
Where this trial is running
Edinburgh, Scotland
- Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion (NHS Lothian) — Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Naing Latt Tint, FRCOphth — NHS Lothian
- Study coordinator: Beth Mills, PhD
- Email: beth.mills@ed.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 131 242 9180
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.