Spinal fluid clues may unlock MS diagnosis and prognosis

NCT ID NCT04496830

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: Washington University School of Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether proteins in spinal fluid can help doctors tell the difference between multiple sclerosis (MS) and other brain diseases, and also predict how MS will progress. Researchers analyzed spinal fluid samples from 161 people with MS using a special test called SOMAscan. The goal is to create models that could one day help diagnose MS earlier and personalize treatment plans.

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 lead to a simple spinal fluid test that helps doctors diagnose MS more accurately and predict how the disease will progress in each patient.
What could go wrong: This is a completed observational study, not a treatment trial. The findings may not translate into a widely available test, and the biomarkers identified may not be reliable enough for routine clinical use.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

multiple sclerosis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Washington University in St Louis

St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.