Gene sleuths hunt down the true source of blood infections in hospitalized kids

NCT ID NCT02271243

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study aims to figure out where bloodstream infections in children with central lines actually come from. By comparing the DNA of bacteria from the blood with bacteria from the gut, mouth, and skin, researchers hope to tell whether the infection started from the line itself or from damage to the gut or airway. The study will enroll 60 children at Boston Children's Hospital and use advanced genetic sequencing to trace the infection's origin.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors better understand whether a bloodstream infection comes from the central line or from gut or airway damage, leading to more accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early observational study (60 participants) at a single hospital, so results may not apply to all patients. It is not testing a treatment, so no direct benefit to participants.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bacterial infectious disease with sepsis nosocomial infection

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Boston Children's Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

    Contact

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••