Eye scan could spot hidden nerve pain in dry eye sufferers
NCT ID NCT05653921
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study is testing whether a special microscope (in vivo confocal microscopy) can reliably detect tiny nerve growths called microneuromas in the cornea, which may be a sign of neuropathic corneal pain. Researchers will scan the eyes of 438 adults with dry eye or ocular pain to see if the presence of microneuromas matches their symptoms. The goal is to validate this imaging technique as a diagnostic tool, not to test a 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 provide a reliable way to diagnose neuropathic corneal pain using a simple eye scan, leading to better treatment decisions.
What could go wrong
The study is currently suspended, and it only aims to validate a diagnostic tool, not test a treatment. The biomarker may not prove reliable in all patients.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
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Tufts Medical Center
Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, United States