Study of Corneal Biomechanics in Glaucoma Patients Using Brillouin Microscopy (NCT06993597) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Study of Corneal Biomechanics in Glaucoma Patients Using Brillouin Microscopy
United States60 participantsStarted 2025-09-01
Plain-language summary
This pilot study evaluates the biomechanical properties of the cornea in glaucoma patients using Brillouin microscopy, a non-contact imaging technique. The study aims to compare corneal stiffness between patients with normal-tension glaucoma, high-tension glaucoma, and healthy controls, and to assess changes in corneal biomechanics following intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering treatment. The goal is to determine whether Brillouin-derived biomechanical measurements can serve as biomarkers for glaucoma risk and progression.
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:
\- Age 18 years or older
Diagnosis of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) or no history of glaucoma (for controls)
Open angle on gonioscopy (Shaffer grade 3 or 4)
Best-corrected visual acuity of 20/25 or better
Refractive error between +3.00 and -5.00 diopters
No prior use of topical glaucoma medications
Diagnosis of:
High Tension Glaucoma (IOP ≥ 22 mmHg on 3 visits)
Normal Tension Glaucoma (IOP ≤ 21 mmHg on 3 visits)
OR age-matched control with normal optic nerve and visual fields
Exclusion Criteria:
Corneal abnormalities or conditions interfering with Brillouin or applanation tonometry
Retinal diseases affecting RNFL (e.g., macular traction)
History of ocular surgery or laser
Diagnosis of diabetes
History of uveitis
History of prolonged steroid use
Neurodegenerative or systemic diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, schizophrenia)
Unreliable visual fields
Contraindications to beta blockers (e.g., bradycardia, severe pulmonary disease)
Moderate to severe glaucoma (per Hodapp-Anderson-Parrish criteria)
History of contact lens use
Low blood pressure
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.