Using blue light to improve immune response in patients with infections
Light Therapy in Patients Undergoing an Operation for a Septic Joint, Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection, Intraabdominal Sepsis, or Medical Treatment of Pneumonia
This study is testing if bright blue light can help boost the immune response and improve recovery for patients with infections like pneumonia while they are in the hospital.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 144 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (St Louis, Missouri) |
| Trial ID | NCT03482245 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of bright blue light exposure on the inflammatory response and organ function in patients undergoing treatment for various infections, including pneumonia and necrotizing soft tissue infections. Participants will be exposed to either blue light or standard white fluorescent light during their hospital stay. The goal is to determine if blue light can enhance immune function and improve patient outcomes in critical illness scenarios. The research is based on the premise that circadian rhythms influence immune responses, and light exposure can be therapeutically applied to optimize these responses.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 who require inpatient treatment for pneumonia, necrotizing soft tissue infections, intraabdominal infections, or infected joints.
Not a fit: Patients with traumatic brain injury, blindness, or those who are immunocompromised may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved recovery and outcomes for patients suffering from severe infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the application of circadian biology in immune response is a novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in using light modulation for enhancing immune function.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * greater than or equal to 18 years of age and less than or equal to 65 years of age * one of the following diagnoses requiring inpatient hospital care 1. an operation for intraabdominal infection 2. an operation for necrotizing soft tissue infection 3. an operation for an infected joint 4. medical treatment of pneumonia. Exclusion Criteria: * traumatic brain injury * blindness * immunocompromised or immunosuppressed state * infection requiring treatment in preceding 30 days * blindness * SARS-CoV-2
Where this trial is running
St Louis, Missouri
- Barnes Jewish Hospital — St Louis, Missouri, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Matthew R Rosengart, MD MPH — Washington University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Matthew R Rosengart, MD MPH
- Email: matthew.r@wustl.edu
- Phone: 314-362-5298
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.