Comparing how well Neutrocheck works in comparison to current blood tests in spotting infections in patients with low white blood cells
This study is looking at a new, portable device called Neutrocheck. It's designed to help spot infections quickly in people who have low white blood cells, a condition often linked to chemotherapy, called neutropenia. When white blood cells are low, there's a higher risk of a serious infection called neutropenic sepsis. Currently, this needs a hospital blood test, which can take time. Neutrocheck uses a simple finger-prick blood sample and gives results quickly via a colour chart and app. The aim is to see if Neutrocheck is as good as hospital tests. If it is, it could mean people could check themselves at home, get faster results, and only go to the hospital or get antibiotics if truly necessary.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called NeutroD, is testing a new device called Neutrocheck. It's designed for people who have low levels of a type of white blood cell called neutrophils. This condition, known as neutropenia, is a common side effect of treatments like chemotherapy and can make people more likely to get serious infections. One such infection, neutropenic sepsis, can be life-threatening.
Currently, if doctors suspect neutropenic sepsis, they do a blood test in the hospital to check neutrophil levels and a protein called CRP. While waiting for results, which can take up to two hours, patients often receive antibiotics through a drip in their arm. Neutrocheck aims to make this process much faster and easier. It's a small, portable device that uses just a finger-prick blood sample to check for these same infection markers. You then see the results using a colour chart and a phone app.
The main goal of this study is to see if Neutrocheck's results are as accurate as the tests done in a hospital lab. If it proves to be reliable, it could mean that in the future, people could test themselves at home. This would allow them to get results much quicker, potentially avoiding unnecessary hospital visits and ensuring they only receive antibiotics when needed. This could make a big difference for people managing their health, giving them more control and peace of mind.
Key takeaways
- Testing a new finger-prick device (Neutrocheck) for infection.
- Aims to help people with low white blood cells due to chemotherapy.
- Could lead to faster, at-home infection testing.
- Involves training to use the device and simple blood tests.
- Small risks like finger-prick discomfort, no direct personal benefit.
- Your participation helps improve future care for others.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to join this study if you are 18 years old or older and are at risk of having low white blood cells (neutropenia) or a specific type of infection related to it (neutropenic sepsis).
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you are very unwell, have certain conditions like HIV or Hepatitis, have a bleeding problem that makes finger pricks risky, have a specific type of leukaemia, or have severe eyesight or hand movement problems that would make using the device difficult.
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?
- Are you at risk of low white blood cells (neutropenia) or associated infection?
- Do you have good vision and hand movement to use a small device?
- Do you not have any conditions that make finger-prick tests unsafe for you?
- Are you generally well enough to follow instructions and use the device?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll first have up to two small blood samples taken from your arm. Then, you'll get training on how to use the Neutrocheck device, which includes watching a video and looking at a manual. A research nurse or doctor will be there to guide you.
To use the device, you'll use a small finger prick to get a drop of blood, which you'll then transfer onto the device. After about 10 minutes, you'll be able to see the results by comparing coloured lines on the device to a chart. You'll also be given a phone with an app that can help read these lines. The research team will help you with all of this. During the first part of the study, a small amount of blood will be taken from your arm (no more than 4 teaspoons), and in the later stage, only about 2 teaspoons will be taken. You will record your results and a research team member will also note them down. After you've finished the test, you'll be asked to fill out a short questionnaire about how easy you found the device to use. The test kit is for single use and will be safely disposed of by the research team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyCambridge, England
Common questions
What is neutropenic sepsis?
It's a serious infection that can happen when your white blood cells (neutrophils) are very low, often due to chemotherapy. It can be life-threatening.
What is Neutrocheck?
It's a new, portable device that uses a finger-prick blood test to quickly check for signs of infection (neutrophil and CRP levels) in people with low white blood cells.
Will I get my results from Neutrocheck?
Yes, you will be able to see your results using a colour chart and a phone app, with help from the study team.
Will I have to go to the hospital often for this study?
No, the study mostly involves learning to use the device and doing the finger-prick test, initially under guidance. The goal is to see if home testing is possible in the future.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by Innovate UK and 52North.
How to find out more
Glenn Harden
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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