Evaluating a new test for blood disorders
This study is evaluating a new, simple finger-prick blood test, called MySELF, for individuals with monoclonal gammopathy. This condition involves an unusual protein in the blood and sometimes requires regular monitoring, as it can be an early indicator of blood cancers such as myeloma. The research aims to determine if the MySELF test provides results that are just as accurate as the standard blood tests currently done in laboratories. Additionally, it wants to understand how convenient and acceptable this new finger-prick test is for both patients and healthcare professionals. Participants will have the finger-prick test alongside their routine blood tests, and some will complete a questionnaire about their experience. There's no direct health benefit from taking part, but it could improve future testing for this condition.
At a glance
What is this study about?
You might have heard of a condition called monoclonal gammopathy, where a particular unusual protein is found in your blood. For some people, this condition needs regular checking because it can sometimes be an early sign of blood cancers, like myeloma. At the moment, monitoring this involves taking blood from a vein in your arm and sending it away to a lab for analysis. This study wants to find a simpler way to do these important checks.
Researchers are looking at a new, easier finger-prick blood test called the MySELF test. The main goal is to see if this new test gives results that are just as reliable and accurate as the standard blood tests you currently have. If it is, this could make monitoring your condition much more convenient in the future. The study also aims to understand how easy and practical this new finger-prick test is to use for both patients and the healthcare staff doing the tests.
By comparing the new MySELF finger-prick test with the standard lab tests, and by gathering feedback from patients and staff, this research hopes to improve how people with monoclonal gammopathy are monitored in the future. This could lead to a quicker and more convenient way to keep an eye on your health.
Key takeaways
- Testing a new, simple finger-prick blood test (MySELF) for monoclonal gammopathy.
- Aims to check if MySELF is as accurate as current lab blood tests.
- Also exploring how practical and acceptable the new test is for patients and staff.
- Participation involves having the finger-prick test alongside your routine blood tests.
- Possible benefit includes improving future monitoring for this condition.
- Minor risks, mainly brief discomfort from the finger-prick sample.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be an adult aged 18 or over. This study is specifically for people who are already having regular blood tests for monoclonal gammopathy as part of their routine care on the NHS. You also need to be happy to have a small blood sample taken from your finger and be able to understand and agree to take part.
Healthy volunteers between 18 and 100 years old are also welcome to join to help the researchers develop the test further. This means people without monoclonal gammopathy can contribute too.
If you are outside of the age range, or if you are unable or unwilling to give your agreement to participate, then you would not be able to join this study.
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 over?
- Do you already have routine NHS blood tests for monoclonal gammopathy?
- Are you willing to have a small finger-prick blood sample taken?
- Are you able to understand the study and agree to take part (give informed consent)?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will have the MySELF finger-prick blood test done at roughly the same time as your usual blood tests. For most people, this will happen just once. However, if you already have repeated blood tests as part of your regular medical care, you might be asked to have the finger-prick test several times – up to a maximum of six occasions. Each time, the finger-prick test will be done within 72 hours (about 3 days) of your routine blood test, so the results can be accurately compared. You will also be asked to fill out a short questionnaire about your experience using the finger-prick test. There are no extra hospital visits, medications, or long-term follow-up required as part of this study itself.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation TrustUnverifiedBirmingham, England
Common questions
What is monoclonal gammopathy?
It's a condition where an unusual protein is found in your blood. It sometimes needs monitoring because it can be an early sign of certain blood cancers.
What is the MySELF test?
It's a new finger-prick blood test that researchers are comparing to standard lab blood tests to see if it's as accurate for monitoring monoclonal gammopathy.
How many times will I have to give a sample?
Most participants will give a finger-prick sample once. If you have frequent routine blood tests, you might provide up to six samples in total.
Will I get my MySELF test results?
The study aims to compare the new test with standard lab tests, but the initial information doesn't specify if individual participants will receive their MySELF test results directly.
Is there any cost to me for participating?
No, there is no cost to you for taking part in this research study.
How to find out more
Tracey Chan
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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