Determinants of Pterygium Occurrence and Recurrence in a Rural African Population (NCT00713180) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Determinants of Pterygium Occurrence and Recurrence in a Rural African Population
South Africa355 participantsStarted 2008-08
Plain-language summary
The aim of the study is to find out why pterygium occurs and recurs in a rural African population. Participants will be interviewed on personal and lifestyle information, family history of pterygium, environmental exposure and history of previous eye inflammation. They will undergo eye examination and photography. Those with pterygium will be operated on to remove pterygium and followed up to detect any recurrence and complications of surgery. The excised pterygium will be examined pathologically and genetically; participant's blood will also be examined genetically. Data will be analyzed for statistically significant differences in findings between pterygium and pterygium free participants.
The study hypothesis is that multiple factors are responsible for the occurrence and recurrence of pterygium in a rural african population.
Who can participate
Age range
21 Years – 65 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
. Pterygium at least 1.5mm in extent
. Both male and female
. Age range 21-65 years
. Consenting to participate in study
. Unilateral and bilateral pterygium
. All grades of pterygium
Exclusion criteria
. Previous cataract, corneoscleral and glaucoma surgery or corneoscleral trauma and corneolimbal scars
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.