New ultrasound and DNA test could revolutionize leprosy diagnosis
NCT ID NCT07515989
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study is testing whether a new approach—using ultrasound to guide a tiny needle to collect fluid near the ulnar nerve, then analyzing it for leprosy bacteria DNA—can more accurately diagnose leprosy and confirm when it's cured. Researchers will follow 108 participants for one year, comparing this method to standard tests. If it works, it could lead to earlier treatment and fewer long-term disabilities.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Ultrasound-guided perineural subcutaneous aspirate with PCR analysis
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could provide a more accurate way to diagnose leprosy early and confirm when the disease is cured, potentially reducing nerve damage and disability.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study (108 participants) testing a new diagnostic method. The technique may not prove more accurate than existing tests, and results may not apply to all leprosy patients.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 108 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
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Jan 2026
- Expected to finish
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Aug 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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14 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: Individuals aged 14 years or older; Clinical suspicion of leprosy based on dermatologic or neurologic examination OR; Presence of peripheral nerve enlargement or skin lesions compatible with leprosy; Ability to provide written informed consent. \- Exclusion Criteria: Previous treatment for leprosy; Contraindication to the aspiration procedure (e.g., coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy); Local infection at the puncture site; Inability or unwillingness to provide informed consent.
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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.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University Hospital of Brasília
RECRUITINGBrasília, Federal District, 70.830-200, Brazil
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