Using ultrasound to assess acute chest syndrome in sickle cell disease patients

Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) for the Diagnosis of Acute Chest Syndrome in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease

This study is testing if using ultrasound can help doctors quickly and safely diagnose acute chest syndrome in young patients with sickle cell disease without using radiation from x-rays.

Quick facts

• Phase: Not applicable
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 30 (estimated)
• Ages: N/A to 25 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Indiana University (Academic / other)
• Drugs / interventions: radiation
• Locations: 1 site (Indianapolis, Indiana)
• Trial ID: NCT06880679 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the feasibility and reliability of using ultrasound as a diagnostic tool for acute chest syndrome (ACS) in patients with sickle cell disease. It aims to determine if point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can effectively identify ACS without the radiation exposure associated with chest x-rays. The study will involve hospitalized patients aged 0-25 years who have a documented diagnosis of sickle cell disease and are experiencing related complications. By comparing ultrasound findings with traditional imaging methods, the researchers hope to establish ultrasound as a viable alternative in the inpatient hematology setting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are hospitalized patients aged 0-25 years with a documented diagnosis of sickle cell disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are hemodynamically unstable or have a prior diagnosis of acute chest syndrome before admission may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a safer, non-invasive diagnostic option for patients with sickle cell disease experiencing acute chest syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using ultrasound for similar diagnostic purposes, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age: 0-25 years old
2. Diagnosis: Patients with a documented diagnosis of sickle cell disease (any genotype)
3. Disposition: Hospitalized for a SCD-related complication (e.g. VOC)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patient is considered hemodynamically unstable to undergo consent and study procedures
2. Already has diagnosis of ACS prior to admission to inpatient unit
3. POCUS operator not available

Where this trial is running

Indianapolis, Indiana

• Indiana University — Indianapolis, Indiana, United States (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Seethal Jacob, MD — Indiana University
• Study coordinator: Thomas Fisher-Heath, DO

Conditions Acute Chest Syndrome; Sickle Cell Disease; Sickle Cell Anemia; POCUS; Ultrasound