Measuring muscle health with a handheld electrical impedance device (mScan)

Is this trial a fit for you?

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

What this trial studies

Researchers will use a handheld Electrical Impedance Myography device called the mScan, which is placed on the skin and uses a brief, painless electrical current to record muscle properties. Adults aged 18–89 with primary myopathic conditions and healthy controls will undergo mScan measurements alongside standard muscle MRI (and DXA where applicable) to compare results. The study will analyze how well mScan readings predict MRI measures of atrophy, edema, fatty infiltration, and overall muscle composition across different muscle diseases. Key exclusions include inability to lie flat, MRI incompatibility, severe obesity (BMI >35), significant lower-extremity edema, pregnancy, or skin conditions that interfere with EIM.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Ages 18-89
* Evidence of a primary myopathic condition as determined by detailed chart review, including results of genetic testing, serological data, or previous muscle biopsy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to lie flat or history of claustrophobia
* \>1+ lower extremity edema
* Presence of multiple other pathologies affecting lower extremity muscles to be studied
* Pregnancy
* Contraindications for MRI scanning - e.g. MRI incompatible pacemaker, deep brain stimulator, or lower extremity hardware
* Contraindications to undergo DXA Scan

  * Any studies/scans with a radioisotope within the past 15 days
  * Any imaging with radiographic contrast in the past 7 days
  * Weight greater than 450 lbs
  * Calcium supplements or antacids containing calcium in the past 24 hours
* Severe obesity with BMI \> 35 kg/m2, given difficulties fitting in MRI scanner and impact of severe obesity on EIM data
* Chronic skin conditions with ulcerations which would interfere with EIM electrode contact or be uncomfortable for the participant

Where it's running

• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Pushpa Narayanaswami, M.D. — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

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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.