Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

The Applanation Tonometry in GCA Pilot

The ATOM-GCA study is researching a new way to help diagnose a condition called Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA). GCA is a type of inflammation that affects blood vessels, often in the temples. Researchers are using a gentle test called applanation tonometry, which measures how stiff your blood vessels are. They want to see if this measurement is different in people who have GCA compared to those who don’t. The study also aims to figure out how accurate this test is and if it can spot inflammation in the blood vessels. Finally, it checks how comfortable and practical it is for people to have these measurements done more than once over time. This research hopes to find better ways to diagnose GCA earlier.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

Centre Integre Universitaire de Sante et Services Sociaux du Nord de l'ile de Montreal

Enrolment target

146

Start

30 Jul 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2027

Giant Cell Arteritis

What is this study about?

The ATOM-GCA study is focusing on Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), a condition where the blood vessels, often in your head and temples, become inflamed. This can cause various symptoms and needs to be diagnosed accurately and quickly. Currently, diagnosing GCA can sometimes be tricky and might involve more invasive procedures.

This study is exploring a new, non-invasive (meaning it doesn't involve needles or cutting) way to help diagnose GCA. It uses a method called applanation tonometry on the blood vessels in your temples. This test measures how stiff or flexible your blood vessels are. Researchers want to see if people with GCA have different measurements compared to those without the condition. If successful, this could become a quicker and easier way to help doctors diagnose GCA.

The study also aims to understand how accurate this new test is, and if it can pick up signs of inflammation in the blood vessels. Finally, it wants to know if people find the test comfortable and easy to repeat over time, which is important if it’s going to be used regularly in the future. The ultimate goal is to find better and simpler methods to diagnose GCA, leading to faster treatment.

Key takeaways

New study to find better ways to diagnose Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA).
Uses a gentle test called applanation tonometry on blood vessels in the temples.
Aims to see if this test can accurately detect GCA and inflammation.
Checks how easy it is to repeat the test over time.
Designed for people over 50 with suspected new GCA.
Participation involves assessments; no new medications are given.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be over 50 years old and have recently been referred to a doctor because they suspect you might have new Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA). It’s important that you can understand what the study involves and are willing to sign a consent form, showing you agree to take part. You also need to be able to come to the study appointments and follow the study instructions.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are being checked for GCA coming back after treatment, or if you have recently taken steroid medicines (like prednisone) for a certain amount of time. You also can't join if you are taking other strong medicines that affect your immune system, or if you’ve already had a biopsy of your temporal artery (a common test for GCA) before your first study visit.

The study is looking for both men and women between the ages of 50 and 99.

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.

Am I over 50 years old?
Has my doctor recently referred me because they think I might have new GCA?
Have I *not* already had a procedure on my temple artery before this doctor's visit?
Have I *not* consistently taken steroid medicines (like prednisone) for a long time recently?
Am I willing to come to study appointments and agree to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would primarily have a special test called applanation tonometry performed on the blood vessels in your temples. This is a non-invasive, gentle test. You would also undergo a standard medical check-up for GCA. This might involve answering questions about your health and symptoms, and possibly some physical examinations. The study is designed as a 'cross-sectional' study, meaning most of the main assessments happen around the same time.

There's an optional part of the study where you might have the applanation tonometry test repeated during a follow-up period to see how easy and practical it is over time. The study does not involve taking any new medications, and you would continue any treatment recommended by your doctor for your suspected GCA. The total duration of your active participation would likely be focused around the initial assessment, with potential for some follow-up if you opt for that part of the study. More details on the exact number and timing of visits would be explained by the study team.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might not directly benefit your health immediately, but it could help doctors understand GCA better and lead to improved diagnosis for future patients. The applanation tonometry test is generally safe and non-invasive, so serious risks are unlikely. You might feel a slight pressure during the measurement, but it shouldn't be painful. As with any study, there's always a small chance of unexpected side effects or discomfort. Remember, you can choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Vasculitis Clinic, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal
Verified postcode
Montreal, Canada

Common questions

What is Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)?

GCA is a condition where large blood vessels, often in the head and temples, become inflamed, which means they swell up. It can cause headaches, problems with vision, and jaw pain.

What is applanation tonometry?

It's a gentle, non-invasive test that measures the stiffness of your blood vessels. A small device is lightly pressed against your skin, often near your temple, to take the measurement.

Will I receive any new treatment in this study?

No, this study is about diagnosis, not new treatments. You will continue to receive the care your doctor recommends for your suspected GCA.

How long will I be involved in the study?

The main part of the study involves visits for assessments around the suspected GCA diagnosis. There might be an optional follow-up period for repeated tests, but the total duration would be discussed with you.

Can I stop participating if I change my mind?

Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, and it will not affect your medical care.