Can images of the eyes be used to develop a reliable, non-invasive method for categorising the severity of jaundice?
Jaundice, a condition causing yellowing of the skin and eyes, is often a sign of underlying health issues like liver disease. Currently, doctors often rely on noticing the yellow colour in the whites of the eyes, but this can be hard to judge accurately. To get a definite answer, a blood test is usually needed. This study wants to find a simpler, more consistent way to tell how severe jaundice is. Researchers will take pictures of participants' eyes and compare them with existing blood test results that measure bilirubin, the substance that causes the yellowing. They hope to create a tool that can assess jaundice severity just from these eye images, making it potentially easier and less invasive for patients in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Jaundice is a condition where your skin and the whites of your eyes become yellow. This happens when there's too much of a substance called bilirubin in your blood. Bilirubin is a natural yellow pigment produced when your red blood cells break down. While it's normal to have some bilirubin, high levels can be a sign of more serious health problems, such as liver disease. Currently, doctors often look for the yellowing in your eyes to spot jaundice, but how yellow it looks can be different for each doctor. To be sure about how much bilirubin is in your blood and how severe the jaundice is, you usually need a blood test.
This study is trying to find a new, non-invasive way to assess how severe jaundice is. They want to see if taking pictures of your eyes can help. Researchers will take a photograph of your eyes and then compare it with the bilirubin level that has already been measured from a routine blood test you've had. The goal is to develop a computer model that can look at an eye image and accurately tell how much jaundice is present.
The main idea is to create a more consistent and potentially simpler method for checking jaundice severity. If successful, this could mean that in the future, assessing jaundice might not always require an extra blood test, making it a more comfortable experience for patients.
Key takeaways
- This study is looking for a new, non-invasive way to check jaundice severity.
- It involves taking a photograph of your eyes and using existing blood test results.
- Participation is quick, around 5-10 minutes, with no extra blood tests.
- There are no direct benefits or risks for participants.
- The goal is to simplify jaundice assessment for future patients.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who are currently staying in York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals. You need to be able to understand the study information and agree to take part.
To be eligible, researchers need to be able to take a picture of your eyes within 48 hours of you having had a blood test that shows your bilirubin level. You should also be able to open your eyes for the photograph, even if you can't move around much.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you have certain existing eye conditions like cataracts or advanced eye disease, or if you wear non-removable contact lenses. You also can't participate if you have epilepsy or if you are significantly affected by drugs or alcohol.
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 older?
- Are you currently an inpatient at York or Scarborough Teaching Hospitals?
- Can you understand information and give your consent to participate?
- Can you open your eyes for a photograph to be taken?
- Do you have any severe eye conditions or epilepsy?
- Are you able to participate within 48 hours of your most recent blood test?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, you will be asked to look into a special box-like device that has a camera inside. This camera will take a photograph of your eyes. The researchers will also use the results from a recent blood test you've already had to measure your bilirubin levels. You won't need to have any extra blood tests or other medical procedures just for this study.
The entire process of taking the photograph and answering a few questions about your experience should only take about 5 to 10 minutes. There are no further appointments or follow-up required after this short session.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustUnverifiedYork, England
Common questions
What is bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a yellow substance made when red blood cells break down. High levels can cause yellow skin and eyes.
Will I need extra blood tests for this study?
No, you will not need any extra blood tests. We will use results from tests you've already had.
How long will it take to participate?
Taking part will only take about 5 to 10 minutes for the eye photograph and a few questions.
Will this study help me directly?
There are no direct personal benefits for participating, but it could help improve jaundice assessment for others in the future.
Can I change my mind about participating?
Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your medical care.
How to find out more
Georgia Sowerby
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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