Blood and AI join forces to catch lung scarring early in rheumatic disease patients

NCT ID NCT07541638

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study aims to find better ways to detect lung scarring (interstitial lung disease) early in people with connective tissue diseases like scleroderma or rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers will analyze tiny particles in the blood called extracellular vesicles and use AI to examine CT scans. They will compare 100 patients with lung scarring to 100 without, tracking them for a year to see if these tools can predict who will get worse.

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 blood test that helps doctors spot lung scarring earlier in people with rheumatic diseases.
What could go wrong
This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not find reliable biomarkers, and any test developed would need further validation before 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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS

    RECRUITING

    Roma, 00168, Italy

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