PANDA-ASOCT: Paediatric Anterior Uveitis Detection With Automated Image Analysis Using ASOCT
Uveitis is a rare but serious eye condition in children that causes inflammation inside the eye. It can lead to lasting vision problems if not found and treated early, often without clear symptoms. Current eye checks can be tricky. This study is testing a new, quick, and gentle eye scan to see if it can detect uveitis accurately in children. The scan takes images of the front of the eye, which are then analysed by computer software to look for signs of inflammation. We are comparing these scan results to the standard eye examination in 300 children. The goal is to develop a better way to diagnose and monitor uveitis, helping children get the right treatment faster and protecting their vision.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Uveitis is a condition where the inside of the eye becomes inflamed, which means it gets swollen and irritated. Although it's rare in children, it's a serious problem because if it's not found and treated quickly, it can cause lasting damage to their eyesight. Often, children with uveitis don't have any pain or symptoms, even when the condition is quite advanced, which is why it's sometimes called a 'silent blinding disease'. Uveitis can happen on its own, or it can be linked to other health problems like Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), a common type of childhood arthritis. Because of this, children with JIA have regular eye checks to look for uveitis, as recommended by national guidelines.
Currently, uveitis is usually checked for using a special microscope called a 'slit lamp', where a doctor looks into the eye. This study is looking at a new way to detect and monitor uveitis using a special imaging machine called AS-OCT. This machine takes very detailed pictures of the front of the eye. It's gentle, doesn't touch the eye, doesn't use radiation, and is usually very well tolerated by children. It can take thousands of images in just a few seconds, capturing a lot of information about the eye.
The main aim of this study is to see if this new imaging system can accurately find signs of inflammation inside the eye. The pictures taken by the machine will be analysed by computer software to objectively identify and measure these signs. We'll compare these results with the findings from the traditional slit-lamp eye examination in 300 children. If this new scan works well, it could provide a quicker, easier, and more reliable way to detect and track uveitis, helping doctors to understand how active the disease is and how well treatments are working, ultimately aiming to prevent vision loss in children.
Key takeaways
- Uveitis is a serious eye inflammation in children that can cause vision loss if not found early.
- This study tests a new, gentle eye scan (AS-OCT) for detecting uveitis.
- The new scan takes quick, detailed pictures of the eye without touching it.
- Researchers will compare results from the new scan with standard eye checks.
- The goal is to improve how uveitis is diagnosed and monitored in children, protecting their sight.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, children need to be between 2 and 16 years old. They must also be patients who regularly attend the uveitis or JIA-uveitis clinics at Sheffield Children's Hospital.
Before taking part, a child's parent or guardian will need to give their written permission. Also, if the child is old enough to understand, they will be asked if they are happy to take part too. Their agreement is called 'assent'.
A child cannot take part if their parent or guardian doesn't give permission, or if the child themselves doesn't want 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.
- Is my child aged between 2 and 16 years?
- Does my child attend the uveitis or JIA-uveitis clinic at Sheffield Children's Hospital?
- Am I, as their parent/carer, happy to give written consent for them to join?
- Is my child (if old enough) happy to take part?
What does participation involve?
If your child takes part in this study, they will have the new AS-OCT eye scan in addition to their usual eye check-ups at the hospital. The scan is quick, gentle, and doesn't involve touching the eye or using any radiation. It takes images of the front of the eye in just a few seconds. There are no extra visits needed for this study; it will be done during your child's regular clinic appointments. The total duration of their participation would depend on how long they continue to attend the clinic and are included in the study. There are no new medications or follow-up procedures specifically for this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Sheffield Children's HospitalVerified postcodeSheffield, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is uveitis?
Uveitis is inflammation (swelling and irritation) inside the eye that can affect children and might damage their vision if not treated.
What is AS-OCT?
AS-OCT is a special machine that takes detailed pictures of the front of the eye quickly and gently, without touching the eye or using radiation.
Will my child have extra appointments?
No, the study assessments will be done during your child's regular eye clinic appointments at Sheffield Children's Hospital.
Is the new eye scan safe?
Yes, the AS-OCT scan is very safe, painless, and non-invasive. It doesn't use radiation.
What is the main goal of this study?
The study aims to see if the new eye scan can accurately detect uveitis in children, potentially making diagnosis and monitoring easier and more effective.
How to find out more
Research and Development Manager
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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