Investigating biomarkers to predict outcomes in COVID-19 patients

COVID-19 Inflammatory Blood Biomarkers for Clinical Management, Prognosis and Evaluation of Interventions

Observational University of British Columbia · NCT04363008

This study is trying to find out if certain blood markers can help predict how well COVID-19 patients will do, especially those with severe symptoms, by looking at their inflammation levels and genetics.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of British Columbia Academic / other
Drugs / interventionstocilizumab
Locations1 site (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Trial IDNCT04363008 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify the prevalence of a hyper-inflammatory 'cytokine storm' phenotype in COVID-19 patients at Vancouver General Hospital. It will explore links between this phenotype and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), as well as profile patients with varying disease severity to identify potential biomarkers for rapid testing. Blood samples will be analyzed to assess physiological and cytokine levels before and after treatment with immunomodulatory therapies. The study also seeks to understand the impact of genetic variation on clinical outcomes related to COVID-19.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients admitted to the High Acuity Unit or Intensive Care Unit with confirmed COVID-19 at Vancouver General Hospital or St. Paul's Hospital.

Not a fit: Patients who do not meet the inclusion criteria or are not admitted to the specified units will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved patient triage and treatment strategies for COVID-19, potentially reducing mortality rates.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have indicated the importance of cytokine profiles in COVID-19, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients admitted to VGH or SMH with confirmed COVID-19
* Admitted to the High Acuity Unit or Intensive Care Unit at VGH or SMH
* An arterial line is in place as part of clinical care. If arterial line is on longer insitu the sample will be collected to coincide with usual care blood collection. This will negate the need for additional venipuncture

Exclusion Criteria:

* Those who do not meet inclusion criteria

Where this trial is running

Vancouver, British Columbia

Study contacts

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.
Conditions COVID 19
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.