RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Evaluation of HRCT Patterns in Systemic Sclerosis-associated Interstitial Lung Disease

Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a long-term condition that affects different parts of the body. Unfortunately, about half of people with SSc also develop a lung problem called Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), which can be quite serious. ILD can vary a lot, from mild cases with no symptoms to more severe forms, and it can progress at different speeds. In this study, scientists are using special lung scans, called HRCT scans, to look closely at the lungs of people with SSc-ILD. They want to find different patterns in these scans. By grouping people based on these patterns, they hope to better understand and predict how their lung disease might behave over time. This could lead to better ways to manage the condition in the future.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Central Hospital, Nancy, France

Enrolment target

100

Start

01 Jan 2023

Estimated completion

01 Oct 2025

Systemic Sclerosis Interstitial Lung Disease

What is this study about?

This study is investigating a condition called Systemic Sclerosis, often shortened to SSc. SSc is a complex disease that affects the body's immune system, which can cause changes in the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. A significant number of people with SSc also develop a lung condition called Interstitial Lung Disease, or ILD. For some, ILD can be mild, but for others, it can become a serious problem and is a major concern for people living with SSc.

Researchers understand that SSc and SSc-ILD can affect people very differently. For example, some people might have a mild form of ILD that doesn't cause many symptoms, while others have more widespread lung damage. The way the disease progresses also varies – some people's ILD might stay stable, while in others it slowly or quickly gets worse. This study uses a special type of detailed X-ray scan called a High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) scan to look closely at the lungs of people with SSc-ILD.

The main aim of this study is to look for common patterns in these HRCT scans. By identifying different patterns, the researchers hope to sort people with SSc-ILD into groups. They believe that these groups might help them predict how a person's lung disease will develop over time. This kind of research is important because understanding these patterns could lead to better ways to identify those most at risk, and potentially tailor treatments more effectively in the future.

Key takeaways

The study aims to understand lung disease in Systemic Sclerosis.
It uses detailed HRCT scans to look for patterns in the lungs.
The goal is to better predict how lung disease might progress.
Participation might involve reviewing your existing scans and medical notes.
It does not involve new treatments or medications.
This research could help improve future care for SSc-ILD patients.

Who may be eligible?

To be able to take part in this study, participants need to meet certain requirements. Firstly, you must have been officially diagnosed with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) based on specific medical guidelines from 2013 provided by leading medical organisations (ACR/EULAR).

Secondly, your doctors must have found signs of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) in your lungs when they performed a special type of detailed X-ray scan called an HRCT chest scan.

You would not be able to join the study if your lung problems are thought to be caused by something else. For instance, if another condition like silicosis (a lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust), sarcoidosis (a condition causing small patches of inflamed tissue), lung cancer, or other significant lung problems are believed to be the main reason for your ILD, then this study wouldn't be suitable for you. Participants must also be 18 years old or older.

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.

Have I been diagnosed with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) using the 2013 ACR/EULAR criteria?
Do I have Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) that has been seen on an HRCT chest scan?
Am I 18 years old or older?
Has my doctor confirmed that my ILD is definitely linked to SSc, and not another condition like silicosis or sarcoidosis?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information provided does not detail the specific steps of what taking part in this study would involve. However, based on the study's aim, participants would likely undergo one or more HRCT chest scans. There may also be a review of your existing medical records, including previous scan results and diagnostic information related to your Systemic Sclerosis and Interstitial Lung Disease. The study does not mention any new medications or treatments being given as part of this research, as it focuses on analysing existing scan patterns. The duration of participation, frequency of visits, and any follow-up appointments are not specified in the current information.

Potential risks and benefits

The potential benefits of taking part in this study are indirect; your involvement could help researchers better understand how Interstitial Lung Disease progresses in people with Systemic Sclerosis, which may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment approaches in the future for others. As the study focuses on analysing HRCT scans, and doesn't mention new medications or procedures, the direct risks appear to be minimal. The HRCT scan itself involves a small amount of radiation, similar to a standard X-ray. As with any clinical study, you would have the right to withdraw from participation at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Central Hospital
Verified postcode
Nancy, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)?

SSc is a long-term condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues, leading to changes in the skin, blood vessels, and sometimes internal organs like the lungs.

What is Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?

ILD is a group of lung conditions that cause scarring (fibrosis) in the lung tissue. This can make it harder for your lungs to work properly and can cause symptoms like breathlessness and a cough.

What is an HRCT scan?

An HRCT scan is a very detailed type of X-ray that takes many pictures of your lungs from different angles. These pictures are then joined together by a computer to create very clear, finely detailed images of the lung tissue.

Will this study give me new treatment?

No, this study is about understanding patterns in existing lung scans, not about testing new treatments or giving new medications. It's more about research to improve future care.

Why is this research important?

By finding patterns in lung scans, doctors hope to better predict how lung disease in SSc might act. This could help them identify people who need closer monitoring or different treatments earlier.

How to find out more

Paul DECKER, MD

p.decker@chru-nancy.fr +33383157240 Official trial record

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