Metagenomics for Ocular Inflammation
This study aims to discover the cause of eye inflammation when standard tests haven't provided an answer. Many people suffer from eye inflammation (uveitis), and often the reason why it happens is unknown. Sometimes, an infection is suspected, but it's hard to pinpoint with current methods. Researchers are using a new technique called 'metagenomic sequencing' on fluid from the eye. This advanced test can identify almost all known infections, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. By finding the specific infection, doctors hope to provide more effective treatments and gain a better understanding of these conditions. The study will happen at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, and will involve participants undergoing the special test and some extra eye scans.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine your eye is inflamed, red, and painful, but doctors can't find a clear reason why. This happens to many people with a condition called uveitis, which is inflammation inside the eye. Sometimes, an infection is suspected, but even after many tests, the culprit remains hidden. This can be very frustrating, as knowing the cause is key to getting the right treatment.
This study introduces a special and very advanced diagnostic test called 'metagenomic sequencing.' Think of it like a super-sensitive detective that can search for tiny bits of DNA or RNA from almost any known infection – be it bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites – within a sample. The aim is to use this powerful tool on a small fluid sample taken from inside the eye. By doing so, doctors hope to uncover infections that current standard tests might miss.
If successful, finding these hidden infections could be a game-changer. It means doctors could offer much more specific and effective treatments, leading to better outcomes for people with eye inflammation. It also helps us generally understand more about why some people get this condition. This study is taking a technique that has worked well for brain infections and applying it to eye problems, hoping to revolutionise how we diagnose and treat them.
Key takeaways
- Aims to find hidden infections causing eye inflammation.
- Uses a special advanced test called 'metagenomic sequencing'.
- May lead to more targeted and effective treatments.
- No extra clinic visits required for the study.
- Includes non-invasive eye scans during a regular appointment.
- Participation is voluntary and won't affect your medical care.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults, aged 18 or older, who have ongoing eye inflammation that is causing a risk to their eyesight. Importantly, participants must be those for whom standard medical tests haven't yet found a clear diagnosis for their eye inflammation.
Doctors need to suspect that an infection or something similar to an infection might be causing the problem. However, if a doctor already knows the infection within five days, this study won't be suitable because the new test takes a bit longer.
Lastly, if for any medical reason it's not safe to take a small fluid sample from your eye, then you wouldn't be able to join the 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 have ongoing eye inflammation that puts your eyesight at risk?
- Have standard tests not yet found a clear cause for your eye inflammation?
- Does your doctor suspect an infection might be involved, but hasn't been able to prove it?
- Are you able to have a small fluid sample taken from your eye safely?
What does participation involve?
If you are invited to join this study, it means your doctors think a fluid sample should be taken from your eye as part of your normal care. For the study, a small portion of this fluid will be used for the special metagenomic sequencing test, in addition to the standard tests your doctors are already running.
You won't need to make any extra visits for the study itself beyond your usual hospital appointments. On the day you attend your clinic visit, you will have some additional non-invasive scans of your eye. These are simple tests, like taking a photo, and don't involve any needles or discomfort. The study is expected to run for about a year in total, but your personal participation would involve the fluid sample and a few extra scans on one clinic visit, with no additional research appointments.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'ocular inflammation'?
It means swelling and irritation inside your eye, and it can cause pain, redness, and vision problems.
What is 'metagenomic sequencing'?
It's a very advanced lab test that searches for tiny bits of DNA or RNA from almost any known germ (bacteria, viruses, fungi) in a sample, helping to find hidden infections.
Will I need extra appointments for this study?
No, you won't need to make any extra research-specific appointments. The study activities will happen during your regular clinic visit when a fluid sample from your eye is already planned.
Will my regular eye care change if I join?
Your usual medical care will continue as normal. The study aims to help your doctors get more information, potentially leading to better-informed treatment decisions.
What if the test result isn't urgent?
This study isn't suitable if your doctors need a test result within 5 days, as the metagenomic sequencing takes a bit longer to process.
How to find out more
Research Administration at Moorfields Eye Hospital R&D
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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