NCT04720456 · Thomas Jefferson University
SHAPE of Portal Hypertension in Children
What this study is about
Early diagnosis of portal hypertension is difficult as symptoms rarely manifest until the later stages of liver disease. Both cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic portal hypertension can result in life-threatening complications, the most frequent of which is bleeding from esophageal varices.
View original scientific description
Early diagnosis of portal hypertension is difficult as symptoms rarely manifest until the later stages of liver disease. Both cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic portal hypertension can result in life-threatening complications, the most frequent of which is bleeding from esophageal varices. In children, variceal bleeds are associated with mortality rates of 1-3 %, while life-threatening complications have been reported in up to 20 % of children with cirrhosis. Despite the high incidence of portal hypertension in children with liver disease, a noninvasive modality to monitor disease progression and risk of complications is currently lacking. Hence, this trial will investigate the safety and efficacy of subharmonic aided pressure estimation (SHAPE) as a noninvasive ultrasound technique for diagnosing portal hypertension in children.
Interventions
DRUG
SHAPE measurement using the ultrasound contrast agent Sonazoid (perfluorobutane microbubbles)
The ultrasound contrast agent will be infused thorough an IV line and SHAPE ultrasound imaging and data acquisition will be performed with a Logiq E10 (GE Medical Systems, Waukesha, WI) ultrasound scanner.
DRUG
SHAPE measurement using the ultrasound contrast agent Lumason (sulfur hexafluoride lipid-type A microspheres)
The ultrasound contrast agent will be infused thorough an IV line and SHAPE ultrasound imaging and data acquisition will be performed with a Logiq E10 (GE Medical Systems, Waukesha, WI) ultrasound scanner.
Primary outcome measures
The rate (%) of adverse events that occur with Sonazoid compared to the current rate of adverse events that have been reported in the Lumason package insert for pediatric use (0.001%)
Time frame: 2 hours
Calibrated subharmonic microbubble signals (in dB) between the portal and hepatic veins will differentiate between the portal hypertension and non-portal hypertension groups with an accuracy of 94%
Time frame: 2 hours
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
- Patients with a diagnosis of chronic liver disease without portal hypertension.
- Patients with a diagnosis of chronic liver disease with portal hypertension.
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects who are pregnant.
- Patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to egg phosphatidyl serine or with a history of anaphylactic allergy to eggs or egg products.
- Subjects with allergy to egg products or other components of the ultrasound contrast agents will be excluded.
- History of allergic reaction to Lumason®, sulfur hexafluoride, sulfur hexafluoride lipid microsphere components, or other ingredients in Lumason (polyethylene glycol, distearoylphosphatidylcholine (DSPC), dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol sodium (DPPG-Na), palmitic acid)
- History of allergic reaction to Sonazoid
- Patients with biliary atresia with asplenia or polysplenia.
- Patients with prior liver transplant.
- Patients with cystic fibrosis.
- Patients with chronic lung disease.
- Patients with portal vein thrombosis, cavernous transformation of the portal vein or absent portal vein.
- Adults not competent/impaired.
- Patients with significant heart disease or severe congenital heart disease
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
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 Feb 11, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations