Clinical trial Recruiting at 6 sites Observational Ages 18 and up

Longitudinal investigation of central nervous system vasculitis

Official title: Longitudinal Study for Central Nervous System Vasculitis

Run by University of Pennsylvania · NCT05734404 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to learn more about primary central nervous system vasculitis by following patients over three years to see how the disease affects them and to find better ways to measure its activity and outlook.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment40 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Pennsylvania
Academic / other
Locations6 sites (Rochester, Minnesota and 5 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 1, 2023
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2030
Study endsDecember 31, 2030
Registry record updatedJanuary 23, 2026
Trial IDNCT05734404 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who meet the diagnostic criteria for CNSV and have an unexplained neurologic deficit.

Probably not a fit

Patients who do not have CNSV or those with systemic vasculitis that could explain their symptoms may not benefit from this study.

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

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to establish a research cohort for primary central nervous system vasculitis (CNSV), a rare and potentially fatal condition that can lead to severe neurological complications. Participants will undergo study visits every three months for the first year and annually for two additional years, during which blood samples will be collected and physical exams conducted. The study seeks to enhance understanding of the disease's natural history, pathophysiology, and potential biomarkers for assessing disease activity and prognosis. By utilizing a multicenter approach, the research aims to overcome previous limitations associated with small patient numbers and lack of comprehensive investigations.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of central nervous system vasculitis, potentially enhancing patient outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: While research on CNSV has been limited, the multicenter approach in this study may provide new insights that have not been previously explored in similar studies.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

i. Diagnostic criteria for CNSV

1. The presence of an acquired and otherwise unexplained neurologic deficit
2. The presence of either classic angiographic or histopathologic features of angiitis in the CNS
3. No evidence of systemic vasculitis or any condition that could cause the angiographic or pathologic features

ii. ≥18 years of age

Exclusion Criteria:

i. Unwilling to sign informed consent.

Where it's running

  • Mayo Clinic
    Rochester, Minnesota, United States
    Recruiting
  • Cleveland Clinic
    Cleveland, Ohio, United States
    Recruiting
  • University of Pennsylvania
    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
    Recruiting
  • Vanderbilt University
    Nashville, Tennessee, United States
    Recruiting
  • St. Joseph's Healthcare
    Hamilton, Canada
    Recruiting
  • University of Toronto/Sinai Health
    Toronto, Canada
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Rula Hajj-Ali, MD — The Cleveland Clinic
  • Study coordinator: Carol McAlear
  • Email: cmcalear@upenn.edu
  • Phone: 7813214567

Similar studies

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

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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.