RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Birdshot Chorioretinopathy : Prospective Follow-up and Immunogenetic Studies(CO-BIRD)

This study focuses on Birdshot Chorioretinopathy, a rare, chronic eye condition affecting both eyes, which can cause inflammation in the retina and choroid (parts of the back of the eye). The main goals are to better understand how the condition appears and changes over time, and to identify what causes it. Researchers will carefully observe people with Birdshot, using eye scans and vision tests, and will also look at their quality of life. They will also study DNA samples to find any genes that might make someone more likely to develop the condition. This research is important because it could lead to earlier diagnosis and better ways to manage Birdshot in the future.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris

Enrolment target

600

Start

02 Nov 2004

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2030

Birdshot Chorioretinopathy Posterior Uveitis

What is this study about?

This research project, called CO-BIRD, is all about a rare eye condition called Birdshot Chorioretinopathy. This condition causes inflammation at the back of the eye, affecting the choroid and retina, which are crucial for sight. It's called 'Birdshot' because special spots, often oval-shaped, can appear on the choroid, looking a bit like birdshot marks. However, these spots can vary a lot, making the condition sometimes tricky to diagnose.

The study has two main aims. Firstly, the researchers want to get a clearer picture of how Birdshot Chorioretinopathy affects people. They'll do this by observing a group of patients over time, using various eye scans and detailed vision tests to see how the disease progresses and impacts their sight. They also want to understand how it affects a person's everyday life by asking questions about their quality of life. This will help them to recognise the different ways the condition can show up and change.

Secondly, the researchers are trying to find out what causes Birdshot Chorioretinopathy. We already know there's a strong link with a specific gene marker called HLA-A29, but the exact reasons why some people get it are still a mystery. By looking at the DNA of the people in the study, they hope to discover other genes that might play a role. Understanding the causes could eventually lead to better ways to diagnose the condition earlier and potentially develop more effective treatments in the future.

Key takeaways

The study aims to understand Birdshot Chorioretinopathy better and identify its causes.
It's an observational study, meaning no new treatments are given, only monitoring.
Participation involves routine eye exams, scans, and questionnaires.
Researchers will also study DNA to find genes linked to the condition.
Findings could lead to earlier diagnosis and improved future treatments.
You can withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your care.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you would need to have Birdshot Chorioretinopathy that affects both eyes. You'd also need to have at least three 'birdshot lesions' – those specific spots – near your optic nerve in at least one eye, specifically below or to the side of it.

Additionally, there should be only a mild level of inflammation in the front part of your eye and a mild level of cloudiness in the jelly-like substance inside your eye (vitreous). Having a positive test for the HLA-A29 gene marker, swelling in a specific part of your retina (macular oedema), or inflamed blood vessels in your retina could also support your inclusion.

However, you wouldn't be able to join if you have certain other eye features, like sticky deposits on the cornea (keratic precipitates) or adhesions where your iris sticks to your lens (posterior synechiae). Also, if your eye problems are caused by an infection, cancer, or another inflammatory condition that creates similar spots, you wouldn't be eligible. The study is open to anyone aged 18 or older, regardless of their sex.

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.

Do you have Birdshot Chorioretinopathy in both eyes?
Do you have at least three specific 'birdshot spots' near your optic nerve in one eye?
Is your eye inflammation generally mild?
Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you *not* have other eye conditions like sticky deposits (keratic precipitates) or adhesions where your iris sticks to your lens?
Is your eye condition *not* caused by an infection, cancer, or another inflammatory disease?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This is an observational study, which means you wouldn't receive new treatments as part of the research. Instead, the researchers would simply follow your current medical care and check-ups. You would need to attend regular clinic appointments where various eye tests would be carried out. These tests would include assessing your vision, checking your visual field, and testing your colour vision. Imaging techniques, like special eye scans, would also be used to look closely at the back of your eyes (retina and choroid).

Additionally, you would be asked to fill out a questionnaire called VFQ-25, which helps understand how your vision affects your quality of life. You may also be asked to provide a DNA sample, likely from a cheek swab or blood test, to help researchers look for genetic markers related to the condition. The total duration of your participation would depend on the study's follow-up plan, but it generally involves regular visits over a period to track the disease and collect information.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may not directly benefit you, as it's an observational study rather than a treatment trial. However, the information gathered could greatly help improve our understanding of Birdshot Chorioretinopathy, potentially leading to better diagnosis and treatments for others in the future. The risks associated are generally low, mainly related to blood tests (such as slight bruising) or the discomfort of some eye examinations, all of which are standard procedures. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this decision will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Ophtalmopôle, Hôpital Cochin
Verified postcode
Paris, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is Birdshot Chorioretinopathy?

It's a rare, long-term eye condition causing inflammation in both eyes, specifically affecting the retina and choroid, which are vital for vision.

What will I have to do in this study?

You'll have regular eye tests and scans, fill out a quality of life questionnaire, and potentially provide a DNA sample. No new medicines are given.

Will I get better if I join this study?

This study is observational, meaning it won't directly treat your condition. However, it will help doctors learn more about Birdshot, which could benefit future patients.

Are there any risks to taking part?

Risks are generally low, mainly minor discomfort from eye tests or blood draws. You can stop participating at any time.

What is the HLA-A29 gene?

It's a genetic marker strongly linked to Birdshot Chorioretinopathy, meaning people with this marker are more likely to develop the condition.

How to find out more

Souhila KECILI, MSc

souhila.kecili@aphp.fr +33 1 58412898 Official trial record

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