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Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Early Prediction of Outcomes Following Optic Neuritis: Development and Acceptability of a Prognostic Tool

This study wants to understand if combining genetic information with your health details after a first attack of optic neuritis can better predict who might go on to develop multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers will also look at how your vision changes over time and how optic neuritis affects your daily life and healthcare needs. Importantly, they'll explore what people think about using genetic information to predict future health. Your participation helps doctors better understand and potentially predict diseases like MS, ultimately aiming to improve care for people with optic neuritis.

At a glance

Status
Not yet recruiting
Sponsor
King's College London
Enrolment target
180
Start
01 Sep 2026
Estimated completion
01 Dec 2027

What is this study about?

This study, called "Early Prediction of Outcomes Following Optic Neuritis," is designed for people who have experienced optic neuritis. Optic neuritis is a condition where the nerve connecting your eye to your brain becomes inflamed, which can cause blurry vision, pain, or even temporary loss of sight. Sometimes, optic neuritis can be the first sign of a condition like multiple sclerosis (MS).

The main goal of this research is to see if we can use a combination of your genetic information and your health records to get a better idea of your chances of developing MS after you've had optic neuritis. We're also interested in seeing how your vision changes over time, how optic neuritis affects your general health and everyday life, and how much healthcare you use. A key part of the study is also to understand what people think about using genetic information to predict future health conditions.

This is an observational study, which means you won't be given any new treatments or medicines. Instead, we'll be carefully reviewing information that already exists in your medical records and asking you to provide some additional details through questionnaires and a saliva sample. Your participation will help us learn more about optic neuritis and its connections to conditions like MS, which could lead to better ways to predict and manage these conditions in the future.

Key takeaways

  • A study for people who have had optic neuritis.
  • Aims to predict MS risk using genes and health records.
  • Involves providing a saliva sample and completing questionnaires.
  • No new treatments – it's an observational study.
  • Helps improve understanding and future care for optic neuritis.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for people who are 16 years old or older. You need to have had optic neuritis diagnosed at one of the hospitals taking part in this research.

If you're under 16, or if your medical records about your first episode of optic neuritis aren't available at the participating hospital, then this study might not be suitable for you.

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.

  1. Are you 16 years old or older?
  2. Have you had optic neuritis diagnosed?
  3. Was your optic neuritis diagnosed at one of the participating hospitals?
  4. Are your medical records for your first optic neuritis episode available at that hospital?
Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be asked to let the research team look at your medical records. This will include information about your optic neuritis diagnosis, any tests you had, the treatments you received, and how you recovered.

You will also be invited to give a saliva sample – this is a simple, painless way to collect some of your genetic material for analysis. Additionally, you'll be asked to fill out some questionnaires. These will cover things like your lifestyle, how optic neuritis affects your quality of life, and your thoughts on using genetic information to predict future health risks. Lastly, you'll agree for the researchers to track your long-term health using information from your NHS records. There are no study visits, new medicines, or procedures. The total duration of your participation will be long-term as researchers track your health over time using your NHS records.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study won't directly improve your health, but the information collected will be very valuable for future patients. It could help doctors better understand who might be at risk of developing MS after optic neuritis, leading to earlier support and potentially better care. There are very few risks involved, mainly the small inconvenience of providing a saliva sample and completing questionnaires. All your personal information will be kept confidential. You have the right to change your mind and withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (3)

  • Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
    Verified postcode
    London, United Kingdom
  • Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
    Verified postcode
    London, United Kingdom
  • King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
    Verified postcode
    London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is optic neuritis?

Optic neuritis is when the nerve connecting your eye to your brain gets inflamed, which can cause blurry vision or temporary sight loss.

What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?

MS is a condition that affects your brain and spinal cord, potentially causing problems with vision, balance, and muscle control.

Will I get results from my genetic test?

The study aims to understand patterns across many people, not to provide individual genetic results. You won't receive personal genetic results from this research.

How will my privacy be protected?

All your information will be handled confidentially and securely. Your name won't be linked to your study data in reports.

Do I have to take part?

No, taking part is completely voluntary. Your decision will not affect your usual medical care.

How to find out more

Tasanee Braithwaite, Doctor of Medicine (Oxon)

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

Interested in taking part?

Register your interest

Share your details and the research team for "Early Prediction of Outcomes Following Optic Neuritis: Devel…" will contact you if you may be eligible. Always speak to your GP before agreeing to take part.

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