Validation of the Prognostic Impact of a Retinal Photograph-based Cardiovascular Disease Risk Stratification System in de Novo HFrEF

Launched by YONSEI UNIVERSITY · May 11, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to predict the risk of heart problems in people with a specific type of heart failure called heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Researchers are using retinal photographs—images of the back of the eye—to help assess the health of blood vessels and predict future heart events. The goal is to see if these retinal images can provide useful information about a patient’s risk for serious heart issues or even death, especially when considering different causes of heart failure.

To participate in this study, individuals need to be between 20 and 79 years old and must have a weakened heart (with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 40% or less). Participants will need to provide written consent and will undergo tests to take high-quality photographs of their retina. However, those with certain eye conditions that prevent clear imaging or who are pregnant cannot take part. If eligible, participants can expect to undergo evaluations at the start of the study and may help researchers understand how retinal imaging can improve care for heart failure patients in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients aged between 20 and 79 years with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 40% or less (assessed by transthoracic echocardiography), who have provided written consent for participation, have the capability to consent voluntarily
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Inability to obtain high-quality fundus photographs due to severe ophthalmologic conditions
• • Presence of extensive retinal diseases that significantly impair visualization of the retinal vasculature
• * Decline to provide informed consent for study participation, including:
• • Pregnant individuals
• • Individuals lacking decision-making capacity