NCT06903078 · Center for Clinical Studies, Texas
A Study That Collects Participant Data and Biospecimens to Analyze Pathogenic Exosomes That Mediate Increased Vascular Dementia Risk in Individuals With Herpes Zoster.
(R01)
What this study is about
The purpose of this observational research study is to study if patients with herpes zoster, also known as Shingles, have a higher risk of vascular dysfunction (problems with blood vessels, including stroke) and vascular dementia (problems with mental decline as a result of decreased blood flow to the brain) compared to patients without herpes zoster.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this observational research study is to study if patients with herpes zoster, also known as Shingles, have a higher risk of vascular dysfunction (problems with blood vessels, including stroke) and vascular dementia (problems with mental decline as a result of decreased blood flow to the brain) compared to patients without herpes zoster. Patients are evaluated based on the group they are assigned too: 1. Herpes Zoster (HZ) Group: individuals presenting with untreated herpes zoster. These participants will have 6 visits: * Day 1 = 1st day presenting to clinic with acute zoster * 7 days post zoster * 1 month after Day 1 * 3 months after Day 1 * 6 months after Day 1 * 12 months after Day 1 2. Control Group: individuals without herpes zoster o Day 1 (only 1 visit will be completed) This study does not have a study medication/device. Standard of care for all patients will be followed.
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
- At the Screening Visit (Visit 1/Day 1), all participants must meet all the following criteria in order to be considered for participation in the study:
- Be a male or female ≥ 18 years of age.
- Present to clinic for routine dermatologic evaluation with or without rash.
- Are willing and able to complete study visits and procedures, and able to effectively communicate with the investigator and other study personnel.
- Have adequate venous access and are willing to undergo venipuncture for blood draws.
- Able to provide written informed consent prior to any study procedures. Additional inclusion criteria for Herpes zoster (HZ) participants,
- Present with acute, vesicle-stage HZ that has not been treated with antiviral therapies
- Are willing and have reliable transportation to complete additional follow-up visits at 7 days, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after initial visit for acute HZ.
Exclusion criteria
- At the Screening Visit (Visit 1/Day 1), participants meeting any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in the study:
- Female individuals who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
- Receiving systemic or topical antivirals for varicella zoster virus (VZV).
- Sensitivity or allergy to systemic or topical antiviral medications for HZ.
- History of diagnosed HZ within the last 8 years.
- Received a HZ vaccine (e.g., Zostavax®/Shingrix®) within the last 8 years.
- Received any vaccinations within the last 3 months.
- Currently taking immunosuppressive therapies, including medications and radiation.
- Currently taking any anticoagulants.
- History of any coagulation disorder(s).
- History of end-stage renal disease or uremia.
- History of end-stage liver disease.
- History of HIV.
- Have had a COVID-19 infection in last 3 months.
- Any history of non-skin cancers within the last 3 months.
- History of serious infection requiring hospitalization in the last 3 months.
- Prior history of cardiovascular accident or myocardial infarction within the last 12 months.
- Prior cerebrovascular accident in the past 12 months.
Where
- Houston, Texas
- Webster, Texas
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 Dec 11, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations