Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Observational Ages 1 Month to 99

Understanding the genetics and immune response in PFAPA syndrome and tonsil disorders

Official title: Evaluating the Genetics and Immunology of Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, and Cervical Adenitis (PFAPA) Syndrome and Other Tonsil Disorders

Run by National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) · NCT05656365 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to understand the genetics and immune responses in people with PFAPA syndrome and tonsil problems by collecting and analyzing blood and other samples.

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Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages1 Month to 99 Years
SexAll
Enrollment1500 (estimated)
SponsorNational Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC)
NIH
Locations3 sites (Washington D.C., District of Columbia and 2 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMay 23, 2023
Main results expectedJune 30, 2037
Study endsDecember 31, 2038
Registry record updatedApril 8, 2026
Trial IDNCT05656365 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include individuals aged 1 month or older who exhibit symptoms of PFAPA or other tonsil disorders.

Probably not a fit

Patients with conditions that may pose undue risk or make them unsuitable for participation will 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 collect blood and other biological specimens from individuals diagnosed with periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and cervical adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome, as well as other tonsil disorders. Researchers will analyze these samples to investigate genetic, immunologic, and microbial factors that may contribute to the development of these conditions. Participants can be seen in person or remotely, and those undergoing tonsillectomy may provide leftover clinical specimens for research. The study seeks to identify genetic risk variants and characterize immune responses associated with PFAPA and related disorders.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of PFAPA and tonsil disorders, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment options for affected patients.

How similar studies have gone: While this study focuses on PFAPA and tonsil disorders, similar genetic and immunological studies have shown promise in understanding other periodic fever syndromes.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
* INCLUSION CRITERIA:

Participants must meet all the following inclusion criteria to be eligible for this study:

1. Aged \>=1 month. To be seen at the NIH CC, participants must be \>=3 years of age.
2. Diagnosed with PFAPA or another tonsil disorder, or has symptoms consistent with these conditions, as determined by the investigator.
3. Able to provide informed consent (for ages \>=18 years) or has a parent or guardian who can provide informed consent on their behalf (for ages \<18 years).
4. Willing to allow specimens and data to be stored for future research.
5. Willing to allow genetic testing on their biospecimens.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

An individual who has any condition that, in the judgment of the investigator, may put them at undue risk or make them unsuitable for participation in the study will be excluded.

Where it's running

  • Indiana University School of Medicine
    Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
    Recruiting
  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
    Bethesda, Maryland, United States
    Recruiting
  • Children's National Medical Center
    Washington D.C., District of Columbia, United States
    Not yet recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Kalpana Manthiram, M.D. — National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
  • Study coordinator: Mary T Bowes
  • Email: mbowes@cc.nih.gov
  • Phone: (240) 408-0970

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.