Optic Nerve Sheath Ultrasound in Giant Cell Arteritis

Launched by CENTRE INTEGRE UNIVERSITAIRE DE SANTE ET SERVICES SOCIAUX DU NORD DE L'ILE DE MONTREAL · Feb 18, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The SONIC-GCA study is looking into a special ultrasound test to help detect a condition called Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), which can cause serious eye problems. Researchers want to see how well measuring the size of a part of the eye called the optic nerve sheath can identify new cases of GCA. They will also check if this measurement can reliably be repeated by different doctors, and whether it can show if the disease is getting better or worse.

To participate in this trial, you need to be an adult over 50 years old who has been referred to a doctor for suspected new-onset GCA. Unfortunately, if you have been diagnosed with a relapse of GCA, are currently taking certain steroids, or have specific eye or brain conditions, you won't be able to join. Participants will undergo the ultrasound test and may help researchers learn more about using this method to monitor GCA. The study is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to improve how doctors diagnose and track this serious condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion criteria are:
• • 1. adult patient aged \> 50 years;
• • 2. referred for suspected, new-onset cranial GCA;
• • 3. ability to understand and provide a written informed consent.
• Exclusion criteria:
• • 1. referral for a suspected GCA relapse;
• • 2. current use of systemic glucocorticoids for ≥ 14 consecutive days in the previous 30 days;
• • 3. known previous medical history of conditions which may affect the ONSD, such as optic nerve diseases, demyelinating diseases, or any conditions associated with intracranial hypertension;
• • 4. known underlying condition that impairs the ability to perform optic nerve sheath ultrasound or fundoscopy.