NCT00001465 · National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Study of the Disease Process of Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
What this study is about
Pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a destructive lung disease typically affecting women of childbearing age. Currently, there is no effective therapy for the disease and the prognosis is poor. This study is designed to determine the disease processes involved at the level of cells and molecules, in order to develop more effective therapy.
View original scientific description
Pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a destructive lung disease typically affecting women of childbearing age. Currently, there is no effective therapy for the disease and the prognosis is poor. This study is designed to determine the disease processes involved at the level of cells and molecules, in order to develop more effective therapy. Researchers intend to identify the proteins and genes that contribute to the process of lung destruction in affected individuals.
Interventions
DEVICE
Toshibia Aquilion One CT
The Toshiba Aquilion ONE CT system is currently being used for studies in both general CT radiology and CT cardiac imaging. One of the unique aspects of the Aquilion ONE CT system is its ability to acquire whole organ volume images in a single rotation by utilizing an x-ray detector that is configured as 320 detector rows with a 0.5 mm width, providing a z-axis coverage of 16 cm of anatomy. In line with the evolutionary changes to CT systems, the Aquilion ONE will be upgraded with new technology that will expand its capabilities. The changes being made to the Aquilion ONE will provide enhancements to image acquisition capabilities, reduce ionizing radiation dose, and improve subject access to the system. All of these features assist in enhancing the safety of the currently installed Aquilion ONE CT system.
Primary outcome measures
Define the clinical course of the disease LAM andelucidate the pathogenesis of LAM at cellular and molecular levels
Time frame: on going
To define the molecular basis of the remarkable proliferation of immature appearing smooth muscle cells, which is the cause of many of the clinical manifestations, and perhaps thereby to improve our understanding of the mechanism of smooth muscle cell proliferation in other diseases, e.g., interstitial lung diseases, asthma, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and post-angioplastic coronary restenosis. To assess the contribution of proteins and genetic factors to cyst formation, airway obstruction, and clinical course. To evaluate the role of TSC genes in the pathogenesis of LAM.
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
- General admission criteria for patients include one or both of the following: Findings on lung biopsy diagnostic of LAM; Findings on chest x-ray and/or chest computed axial tomography consistent with LAM. Patients with TSC and pulmonary LAM will be included in the study. Normal non-smokers in the control group are defined as individuals who have not smoked for greater than or equal to 1 year and have no systemic or pulmonary disease. Normal smokers defined as individuals with no systemic or pulmonary disease, who have smoked for greater than or equal to 1 year and have normal chest x-ray and normal pulmonary function tests may be included if needed as controls for a similar population of patients with LAM. Pregnant and or nursing women can be included in accordance with Federal Regulations at Subpart B of 45 CFR 46 Subjects who are pregnant and or nursing will be excluded from procedures during their pregnancy that are greater than minimal risk, until they are no longer pregnant and/or nursing. Procedures that will not be completed while the subject is pregnant and/or nursing including: PFTs, Six Minute Walk Test, thoracentesis, bronchoscopy, and measurements with imaging modalities requiring contrast or with radiation exposure such as Chest x-ray, CT scan, MRI, bone densitometry (DEXA). Allowing subjects to be included in the study may glean important information about individuals with uncommon pulmonary disease during and post pregnancy.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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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 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations