NCT02317328 · National Eye Institute (NEI)
Adaptive Optics Retinal Imaging
What this study is about
Background: \- By the time diseases of the retina are detected, serious damage has often already been done. Researchers want to find better ways of viewing the retina. One way called adaptive optics may help detect problems earlier. Objectives: \- To study if adaptive optics can help find better ways to diagnose, treat, and manage retinal diseases.
View original scientific description
Background: \- By the time diseases of the retina are detected, serious damage has often already been done. Researchers want to find better ways of viewing the retina. One way called adaptive optics may help detect problems earlier. Objectives: \- To study if adaptive optics can help find better ways to diagnose, treat, and manage retinal diseases. Eligibility: * People over age 12 with an eye disease. * Healthy volunteers over age 12. Design: * Participants will be screened with medical history and eye exams. These may include dilating pupils and taking pictures of the eyes. * Participants will have 1 or more study visits. They will have: * Medical and eye history. * Questions about their medications. * Eye exam including pupil dilation. * Adaptive optics imaging. After dilation, participants sit still while looking into an adaptive optics instrument. They look at specific places and images are taken of their retina. * They may also have: * More images. * Perimetry. Participants look into a lens and press a button when they see a light. * Color vision tests. * Electroretinogram. Participants will get numbing eye drops and special contact lenses. A small metal electrode will be put on their forehead. They will look at flashing lights and try not to blink.
Primary outcome measures
Qualitative and quantitative assessment of AO images
Time frame: ongoing
Qualitative and quantitative assessment of AO images with comparison of normal and diseased states.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants will be eligible if they:
- Are 12 years of age or older.
- Have the ability to cooperate with an eye exam and adaptive optics imaging.
- Have the ability to understand and sign an informed consent or have a parent/legal guardian to do so if they are minor children.
- Have an eye disease or are a healthy volunteer with a normal eye exam (no visually-significant eye findings on examination).
Exclusion criteria
- Participants will not be eligible if: -They have a condition which prevents adequate images from being obtained (e.g. unstable fixation or media opacity). EXCLUSION CRITERIA FOR FLUORESCEIN AND/OR INDOCYANINE GREEN IMAGING Partaicipants are not eligible for fluorescein and/or indocyanine green imaging if they:
- Are under 18 years of age.
- For participants who will undergo fluorescein imaging have a history of adverse reaction to fluorescein.
- For participants who will undergo indocyanine green imaging have a history of adverse reaction to indocyanine green dye, know or suspected allergies to iodine or shellfish.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations