Mucosal Cytokines and Chemokines in Vasculitis (MUCYVAS)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Measurement of levels of cytokines and chemokines in the mucosal lining fluid of the nose, eyes, mouth and trachea in patients with a range of vasculitides
IRAS ID
145203
Contact name
Charles Pusey
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London
Research summary
We aim to study the molecules and cells that cause some individuals to have vasculitis. Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels around the body which can have a number of effects on many organs such as the lungs, kidneys, eyes, nose, mouth and airways. We have chosen to study the nose, mouth, eyes and airways as they are accessible and sampling them would allow us to understand more about the mechanisms of vasculitis.
We hope to use a soft absorbent material like blotting paper to absorb fluid from the inside surface of the nose and mouth and surface of the eye. The process is very gentle, and does not cause pain.
We also wish to take a small amount of tissue from the inside of the nostril, using a small disposable plastic microcurette (scraper). In addition we shall take a blood sample of about 60ml.
We would like to take similar samples from the airway of patients already scheduled to undergo surgery because of a narrowing of their airway due to vasculitis. This will be done only if they are already due to have airway surgery. The sampling will be done at the same time as the operation under general anaesthesia. It will not affect the surgery.
From these samples we shall then measure cells and molecules associated with the inflammation to see if different molecules are raised in different types of vasculitis.
We may be able to identify patterns of inflammation and potentially important differences between individual patients.
In the future this may lead to new drugs, and may help in giving the right medicines to the right patient.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/EE/0130
Date of REC Opinion
13 Jun 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion