CompletedPhase 1/2

Analyzing the Composition of Tears to Identify Cancer

United States150 participantsStarted 2006-12

Plain-language summary

This study will further evaluate the use of protein identification or protein pattern (signature) found in tears. We hypothesize that differences exist between the protein profile in tear fluid from patients with versus without cancer.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Female or male, 18-100 years old * Patients who present for a routine check-up * Patients who present for the evaluation of an abnormal exam or test (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, PET, etc.) * May or may not have a mass present * Patients who present for the evaluation of a palpable lump or mass * Patients may be pre or post biopsy for a mass, as long as there is a portion of the mass remaining Exclusion Criteria: * Patient \< 18 y/o or \> 100 y/o * Concurrent eye infection or trauma * Active conjunctivitis * Abnormal production of tears (too much or too little)

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

This study will further evaluate the use of tumor markers (substances in body fluids that may be elevated as a consequence of certain diseases or conditions) in the diagnosis of breast and/or other cancers.

Timeframe: Collection of specimen and analysis with SELDI-MS

Trial details

NCT IDNCT00574678

SponsorUniversity of Arkansas

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2016-02

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Breast Cancer trials

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.