Cryptosporidium Infection Associated Pancreatic Exocrine Dysfunction
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Pilot Study to Determine The Possible Effect Of Cryptosporidium Bowel Infection with regard to its relationship with Secondary Pancreatic Dysfunction.
IRAS ID
157182
Contact name
Paul Edwards
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 0 months, 23 days
Research summary
The concise aim of this pilot study is to investigate, following initial evocation, the hypothesis that concurrent or historical infection with cryptosporidium, a common stomach bug in certain parts of the world, results in failure of the pancreas to produce the enzymes associated with digestion of food.
In order to fulfil our objective, we will seek to determine if the hypothesised link between cryptosporidium infection and failure of the pancreas to produce it's enzymes is just, by conducting a pilot study in conjunction with The National Cryptosporidium Reference Unit. A further more detailed research project is proposed if the results of the aforementioned prove to be fruitful.
The National Cryptosporidium Reference Unit located in Swansea is a centre of excellence and liaises with, and receives samples from, general practices and other hospitals throughout the country. This allows it access to a large number of infected stool samples.
Our primary modality of investigation will be to access the stool samples that are proven to be infected with cryptosporidium. We will then perform retrospective analysis on the samples, taking into account our inclusion and exclusion criteria, ensuring that the samples provide true and accurate results.
For the purposes of this intial pilot study, the samples collected will be completley anonymised, with no patient identifiable information. The samples will be discarded after testing.
An initial cohort of twenty of these patients will have their stool samples analysed.REC name
West Midlands - Black Country Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/WM/1172
Date of REC Opinion
7 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion