Using the Quadriceps Combined Test to Diagnose and Monitor ALS
Contribution of the Combined Quadriceps Test (QCT) in the Diagnosis, Mechanistic Understanding and Follow-up of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
This study is testing a new way to diagnose and track ALS using a special test to see how well the muscles and nerves are working in people who might have the disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Clermont-Ferrand) |
| Trial ID | NCT06284161 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study focuses on the use of the Quadriceps Combined Test (QCT) to evaluate and monitor patients with suspected Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). By assessing both central and peripheral motor pathway conduction, the QCT aims to provide a more accurate diagnosis and understanding of the disease's progression. The study will involve patients who meet specific criteria for ALS and will track changes in QCT parameters over time to better understand the disease's impact on motor function. The goal is to enhance patient management and improve quality of life through better diagnostic techniques.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults with suspected ALS who meet the Awaji criteria for possible, probable, or definite ALS.
Not a fit: Patients with severe progressive pathologies other than ALS or those with significant cognitive disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of ALS, ultimately improving patient outcomes and management.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of motor-evoked potentials in ALS diagnosis has been explored, the specific application of the QCT in this context is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * A male or female patient of legal age with suspected ALS (bulbar or spinal) who meets the criteria for "possible", "probable" or "definite" ALS according to the Awaji criteria * Able to give informed consent to participate in the research * Enrolled in a Social Security plan Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant or breastfeeding woman * Severe progressive pathology other than ALS. * Comorbidities with another neurological disease altering motor skills. * Contraindication to trans-cranial magnetic stimulation: epilepsy, pacemaker, intracranial ferromagnetic foreign body (clip, aneurysm, implants)... * Chronic alcoholism * Cognitive disorders or major incapacity making it impossible to understand the study and sign an informed consent (fronto-temporal dementia, psychiatric conditions of psychotic type, language disorders) * Refusal to participate. * Patients under legal protection (guardianship, curators, safeguard of justice)
Where this trial is running
Clermont-Ferrand
- CHU de Clermont-Ferrand — Clermont-Ferrand, France (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nathalie Guy — University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand
- Study coordinator: Lise LACLAUTRE
- Email: promo_interne_drci@chu-clermontferrand.fr
- Phone: +33473754963
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.