Longitudinal Study for Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis
This research is looking into a rare body condition called Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis, often shortened to EGPA. Also known as Churg-Strauss Syndrome, EGPA can cause asthma, a high number of certain white blood cells (called eosinophils), and swelling in the blood vessels. Since it can be tricky to tell how active EGPA is, this study aims to find new natural signs, called biomarkers, in the body that could show how severe the condition is. Finding these biomarkers is important because it could help doctors understand the disease better, treat patients more effectively, and develop new medicines in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is focused on a health problem called Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis, or EGPA for short. It's a rare condition where the immune system, the body's defence system, doesn't quite work as it should. People with EGPA often experience asthma, have a lot of a certain type of white blood cell called eosinophils, and develop inflammation (swelling) in their blood vessels, which can cause problems in various parts of the body.
It can be quite challenging for doctors to figure out how active EGPA is in a person, especially because some people might not show clear outward signs even when the disease is causing harm inside. This means that important damage might be happening without doctors being able to spot it early enough to prevent it. To address this, the researchers are trying to find new ways to measure how active EGPA is, by looking for specific signs, called 'biomarkers', in the body. These biomarkers could act like early warning signals.
The main goal of this study is to discover these new biomarkers. If successful, these findings could make a real difference. They could help doctors give more personalised care to people with EGPA, guiding treatment decisions more precisely. They could also speed up the development of new and better medicines for EGPA in the future, ultimately improving the lives of those affected by this condition.
Key takeaways
- The study aims to find new ways to measure EGPA activity.
- It could lead to better detection and treatment for EGPA.
- Participation involves periodic visits for blood and urine samples, exams, and questionnaires.
- There's no direct personal health benefit, but it helps future patients.
- You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To be able to take part in this study, you must have already received a diagnosis of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (EGPA).
If you are a parent or guardian of someone who wants to participate, you must be willing to provide your informed consent, which means agreeing to them taking part after understanding all the details.
However, if you are unable to understand and sign the consent form yourself, you would not be able to participate in this study.
- I have been diagnosed with Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (EGPA).
- If I am a guardian, I am willing to give consent for the person being studied.
- I am able to understand the study information and sign a consent form.
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, your involvement would include regular visits. These visits will happen either every six months or once a year. At each visit, you would have blood and urine samples collected. You will also have a physical check-up, and the research team will ask about your health history and any medications you are currently taking. Additionally, you will be asked to fill out some questionnaires. These questionnaires will help the researchers understand how your condition is affecting you, your general health, and your use of tobacco, alcohol, or other substances. The study is ongoing, so the total duration of your participation could be several years, with check-ups at the specified intervals.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (13)
- University of California San DiegoSan Diego, United States· Completed
- National Jewish HealthDenver, United States· Completed
- Brigham and Women's HospitalBoston, United States· Completed
- Mayo ClinicRochester, United States· Completed
- Cleveland Clinic FoundationCleveland, United States· Completed
- University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, United States· Completed
- University of PittsburghPittsburgh, United States· Completed
- University of UtahSalt Lake City, United States· Completed
- St. Joseph's HealthcareHamilton, Canada· Recruiting
- Mount Sinai HospitalToronto, Canada· Completed
- medius KLINIK KIRCHHEIMKirchheim unter Teck, Germany· Recruiting
- AOU Meyer IRCCSFlorence, Italy· Recruiting
+1 more sites — see the official record for the full list.
Common questions
What is EGPA?
EGPA (Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis) is a rare condition where your immune system causes asthma, too many white blood cells, and swelling in your blood vessels.
What are 'biomarkers'?
Biomarkers are natural signs in your body, like certain substances in your blood or urine, that can help doctors understand what's happening with your health or a condition.
Will taking part benefit me directly?
While this study might not directly improve your health, the information we learn could help develop better ways to treat EGPA for others in the future.
How often do I need to visit?
You would need to attend study visits either every six months or once a year, depending on the study plan.
Can I leave the study at any time?
Yes, you are completely free to withdraw from the study at any point, and your regular medical care will not be affected.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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