NCT06092008 · Ohio State University
Performance of New Diagnostic Methods in Older Adults With Pneumonia
(PNEUMO)
What this study is about
Create a clinical diagnostic pathway for older ED adults with pneumonia and its subgroups (bacterial, viral, and co-infection) and determine whether novel biomarkers improve diagnostic accuracy. The investigators will conduct a forward-looking observational trial of 250 ED patients ≥65 years old with suspected pneumonia.
View original scientific description
Create a clinical diagnostic pathway for older ED adults with pneumonia and its subgroups (bacterial, viral, and co-infection) and determine whether novel biomarkers improve diagnostic accuracy. The investigators will conduct a prospective observational trial of 250 ED patients ≥65 years old with suspected pneumonia. The investigators will perform analyses overall and by subgroups, seeking common models to ease adoption.
Primary outcome measures
Pneumonia
Time frame: 3 years
Presence or absence of pneumonia based on adjudicator review of chart. The goal of the study is to create a diagnostic pathway for pneumonia in older adult emergency department patients.
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
- \- Adults aged 65 and older presenting to the ED with suspected pneumonia defined as (1) either a physician order for CXR OR CT OR a chief complaint consistent with dyspnea; AND (2) physician suspicion of pneumonia prior to ED testing (score of 2-5 on Likert scale)
Exclusion criteria
- inability to obtain consent from the patient or an LAR
- active cancer
- organ transplant
- immunosuppression
- trauma activation
- suicidal ideation
- incarceration
- antibiotics in the last 14 days
- a separate episode of lower respiratory illness in the last 30 days
Where
- Columbus, Ohio
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 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations