Prednisone for Pleurisy
(PROSPECT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines whether corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can prevent fluid buildup in the lungs for individuals with non-specific pleuritis. Pleuritis can cause fluid to accumulate around the lungs, leading to discomfort and increased medical intervention. Participants will either receive corticosteroids or not, and the trial will assess whether the treatment prevents fluid recurrence or causes any side effects. Individuals diagnosed with non-specific pleuritis through a lung biopsy and lacking certain autoimmune markers may be suitable candidates. As an Early Phase 1 trial, this research aims to understand how the treatment works in people, offering participants a chance to contribute to groundbreaking medical knowledge.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are already on corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that prednisone, a type of steroid, does not significantly increase the risk of serious side effects. One study found that patients using steroids did not experience a substantial rise in severe problems compared to those who did not use them. Another study found that in people with severe pneumonia, steroids like prednisone reduced the need for breathing support without adding major risks.
However, some studies have identified potential downsides. For instance, in cases of tuberculous pleurisy, steroids did not improve long-term outcomes and might have caused some negative effects.
Overall, prednisone appears to be generally well-tolerated, but it can have side effects. This research study remains in its early stages, so safety information is still being collected. Participants will be closely monitored for any side effects.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Most treatments for pleurisy focus on managing symptoms with pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications. However, prednisone is unique because it directly targets inflammation by suppressing the immune system's response. Researchers are excited about prednisone because it could provide quicker relief from pleurisy symptoms compared to standard treatments. Additionally, prednisone might help reduce the risk of complications by controlling inflammation more effectively. This potential for rapid symptom improvement and better inflammation management is what makes prednisone a promising option for pleurisy treatment.
What evidence suggests that prednisone might be an effective treatment for pleurisy?
Research has shown that medications like prednisone, a type of corticosteroid, might reduce symptoms and speed up recovery in conditions similar to pleurisy, such as tuberculous pleurisy. In some studies, patients who took prednisone recovered faster than those who did not. However, the long-term effects of these medications on lung fluid buildup remain unclear. Some research suggests that while prednisone alleviates initial symptoms, it doesn't significantly alter long-term outcomes. In this trial, one group of participants will receive prednisone to determine if it can prevent fluid from building up again in the lungs for people with non-specific pleuritis, while another group will not receive any corticosteroids.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Udit Chaddha, MBBS
Principal Investigator
Icahn School of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients with non-specific pleuritis, diagnosed through a biopsy, who have experienced fluid buildup in the lungs. Participants should be available for regular clinic visits and telephone follow-ups over a 6-month period.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive corticosteroids or no treatment to evaluate the prevention of pleural effusion recurrence
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for pleural effusion recurrence, need for additional procedures, and potential side effects of corticosteroids
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Prednisone
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Lead Sponsor