Scientists hunt for hidden causes of painful leg ulcers in sickle cell disease

NCT ID NCT02156102

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 29, 2026 · Updated 8 times

Summary

This completed study looked at why people with sickle cell disease develop chronic leg ulcers. Researchers collected skin swabs, blood samples, and survey data from 405 adults to explore the role of skin bacteria and environmental factors. The goal was to better understand the causes, not to test a new treatment.

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 identify why leg ulcers form in sickle cell disease, pointing toward better prevention or care strategies.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It will not directly test any new therapy, and findings may not lead to immediate changes in care.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for GENETIC DISEASE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

hereditary disease sickle cell disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

GENETIC DISEASE GENOMICS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine

The Bronx, New York, 10467, United States
National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States
University of Sierra Leone, College of Medicine and Allied Health Services

Freetown, Sierra Leone

More trials for these conditions

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