Laser test could objectively measure nerve pain for first time

NCT ID NCT06030297

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: University of Utah Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested whether a diode laser can act as a biomarker to measure neuropathic pain in people with peripheral neuropathy. Researchers compared pain responses to a lidocaine patch versus a placebo patch in 75 participants. The goal was to see if the laser test could distinguish between real pain relief and placebo effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: lidocaine patch (ZTlido 1.8%)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a reliable way to objectively measure nerve pain, helping doctors diagnose and treat it more effectively.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study focused on measurement, not treatment. The laser test may not prove accurate enough for widespread use.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

neuralgia peripheral nervous system disorder peripheral neuropathy

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Stanford University

Palo Alto, California, 94305, United States
University of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah, 84132, United States

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