RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

A Comparison of Diagnostic Testing Modalities in the Assessment of Asthma

This study aims to discover the most effective ways to diagnose asthma. Currently, different international guidelines use slightly different rules, which can sometimes make diagnosis inconsistent. We are comparing these standard diagnostic methods with a new, simple lung test called Impulse Oscillometry (IOS). IOS measures how well your lungs are working without being invasive. By looking at information from adult patients already attending the severe asthma service in Portsmouth, we hope to see if IOS can make asthma diagnosis more accurate and straightforward. Ultimately, this research could lead to better methods for diagnosing asthma, making it easier for doctors and improving care for patients.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

2,000

Start

27 Feb 2024

Estimated completion

27 May 2027

Asthma

What is this study about?

Asthma is a very common breathing condition that affects many people, causing symptoms like breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing. To diagnose asthma, doctors look for specific signs, such as narrowed airways, sensitive airways, and inflammation. However, different health organisations around the world have slightly different ideas about what counts as a definite diagnosis. This can sometimes make it tricky to get a clear diagnosis for everyone.

This study wants to clear up some of this confusion. We're looking at various methods doctors use to diagnose asthma. Importantly, we're focusing on a particular test called Impulse Oscillometry (IOS). This is a simple, non-invasive lung function test that shows promise in making asthma diagnosis more precise. Although it seems helpful, we don't have much information yet about how well it works for diagnosing asthma in adults. The study aims to fill this knowledge gap.

To do this, we are reviewing existing lung function information from adult patients who have already attended the severe asthma service at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth. We will compare how well the different diagnostic methods, including IOS, identify asthma. Our goal is to gain valuable insights that could refine how asthma is diagnosed in the future, potentially adding IOS to the toolkit of tests doctors use. This could lead to a more accurate and simpler diagnosis process, ultimately helping patients manage their asthma better.

Key takeaways

This study compares different ways to diagnose asthma.
It evaluates a new lung test called Impulse Oscillometry (IOS).
It uses existing patient data, so no extra tests for you.
Aims to improve how asthma is accurately diagnosed.
Could make diagnosis easier for doctors and patients.
Your data will be confidential, and you can opt out.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking at information from adults aged 18 or over. To be included, you must have attended Queen Alexandra Hospital's asthma service for a full asthma check-up at some point from November 2021 onwards. You also need to be able to understand the study and agree to your existing medical data being used (by either signing an 'opt-out' form or giving electronic consent).

The study includes people who have been referred to the Portsmouth asthma service specifically for diagnosis or management of suspected asthma. It's common for people with asthma to have other health conditions like obesity, an infection called bronchiectasis, or another lung condition called COPD, and these individuals can still be part of the study.

You would not be included if you are unable to understand the study information or give consent, for example, if there's a language barrier and no one can adequately translate for you. Also, if your main breathing problem is something other than asthma, such as a condition called Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), you would not be included.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you had a full asthma check-up at Queen Alexandra Hospital's asthma service since November 2021?
Are you able to understand the study and agree to your data being used (or opt out if you prefer)?
Is your main breathing problem thought to be asthma, and not another primary lung condition like ILD?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you meet the criteria for this study, you won't need to do anything extra. This study is purely looking at existing information that has already been collected during your routine appointments at Queen Alexandra Hospital's severe asthma service. You won't have any additional visits, assessments, or tests specifically for this research, and you won't be asked to take new medication. Taking part simply means that your standard lung function data will be included in the analysis. There is no set "total duration" for your participation, as the study is reviewing past data. You will be given an 'opt-out' form, and if you choose not to have your data included, that will be fully respected.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part in this study is contributing to a better understanding of how to diagnose asthma, which could lead to more accurate and easier diagnosis for future patients. As this study only involves reviewing existing, anonymous medical information, there are no direct risks or side effects to you as an individual. You will not have any extra appointments or procedures. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time, which means your data would not be included in the study, without affecting your care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust
Verified postcode
Portsmouth, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is Impulse Oscillometry (IOS)?

IOS is a simple and quick test that measures how well air moves in and out of your lungs. You just breathe normally into a mouthpiece while it takes readings.

Will I have to do anything extra if I'm in this study?

No, this study only uses information that has already been collected during your routine appointments. You won't need to do any extra tests or visits.

Will my personal details be safe?

Yes, your data will be handled confidentially. The study will look at your lung function information but won't identify you personally in any reports.

Why is this study important?

It aims to improve how doctors diagnose asthma, making it more accurate and easier. This could lead to better treatment and care for people with asthma in the future.

Can I choose not to be part of the study?

Yes, you will be given an 'opt-out' form, and you have the right to say no to your data being used, without it affecting your medical care.

How to find out more

celia Selvin-Premkumar

celia.selvin-premkumar@porthosp.nhs.uk 02392 286000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.