Eye Complications for Cancer Therapy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial focuses on understanding eye complications that can occur after cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants. Researchers will gather data from patients during regular eye exams, including additional tests like tear collection and blood samples, to explore how these treatments might affect the eyes. Individuals who have undergone cancer therapy and do not have major eye diseases might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides patients an opportunity to contribute to important research that could enhance eye care for future cancer survivors.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial team or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that these research protocols are safe for patients undergoing cancer therapy?
Research shows that eye exams are generally safe and easy to handle. In this study, the eye exam includes standard checks and additional tests, such as collecting tears and blood. These extra tests are simple and similar to regular lab tests.
The study focuses on individuals who have undergone cancer treatment, which can sometimes lead to eye problems. For example, dry eyes and eye redness are common side effects of cancer treatments. Approximately 2% of patients might experience dry eyes, and less than 1% might have eye redness.
Overall, the eye exam itself poses low risk. The cancer treatments might cause some eye issues. This study aims to better understand these effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how eye exams, combined with additional research protocols like tear collection and impression cytology, could better assess eye complications from cancer therapy. Unlike standard eye exams, these experimental methods might offer deeper insights into how cancer treatments affect the eyes, potentially leading to improved care and prevention strategies. By gathering more detailed data from these advanced assessments, scientists hope to tailor more effective eye care solutions for patients undergoing cancer therapy.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for eye complications from cancer therapy?
Research shows that cancer treatments can often cause eye problems. Studies have found that patients may experience issues like eye redness, inflammation of the eye's surface, and dry eyes. Specifically, about 30.4% of patients report eye redness, and 15.6% have inflammation. Some even stop their cancer treatment because of these eye side effects. In this trial, participants in the experimental arm will receive regular eye exams alongside research protocols to detect and manage these problems early. Monitoring eye health may improve the chances of patients continuing their cancer treatment without interruption.12346
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 who've had a stem cell transplant or cancer therapy and are seeing an eye doctor at the University of Maryland. They shouldn't have a history of serious eye diseases, except mild dry eye or past surgeries like cataract removal.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants undergo an eye exam and research protocols such as tear collection, impression cytology, and blood collection
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for ocular complications and outcomes post-cancer therapy
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Eye exam
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Lead Sponsor