What is this study trying to find out about lung diseases?

This study aims to understand the physical origins of ultrasound artifacts in lung imaging and how these relate to lung diseases like interstitial lung diseases, infectious pneumonia, and COPD. Researchers want to improve diagnostic tools by linking ultrasound, CT scans, and physiological signals to better assess lung conditions.

Who may be eligible for this lung disease clinical trial?

Adults aged 18 or older with certain lung conditions, including exacerbations of interstitial lung diseases, infectious pneumonia not caused by COVID-19, or COPD exacerbations, may be eligible. Both hospital inpatients and outpatients with emphysema or stable COPD can participate. The study excludes those with skin allergies, pregnancy, or use of certain medical devices. Please review eligibility criteria for more details.

Is there any cost to participate in this lung disease clinical trial?

Study-related care, including the ultrasound, CT scans, wearable sensor monitoring, and all trial visits, is provided at no cost. However, personal travel expenses related to participation may vary and are not guaranteed to be covered.

Actively Recruiting

Phase Not Applicable

Age: 18Years +

All Genders

ID06068647

Study of Lung Ultrasound and Respiratory Signals in Adults with Lung Diseases Including Interstitial Lung Disease and COPD

Led by Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS · Updated on 2026-05-20

Participants Needed

Research Sites

13 weeks

Total Duration

AI-Summary

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates the use of lung ultrasound and respiratory physiological signals to better understand lung diseases such as interstitial lung diseases during exacerbations, infectious interstitial pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD in various stages. The study focuses on exploring the physical origins and diagnostic value of ultrasound artifacts, especially vertical artifacts that arise from complex interactions of ultrasound waves with lung tissue, which are not yet fully understood. By examining these artifacts, researchers aim to improve knowledge about the superficial lung parenchymas physiological and pathological changes. Participants will undergo thoracic ultrasonographic scans using clinical machines and research platforms, with metal skin markers placed to align ultrasound images with computed tomography CT scans for precise comparison. On the same day as enrollment, a wearable system with sensors applied to the upper chest will collect physiological data including electrocardiography ECG, respiratory effort and flow, physical activity, body position, and sound pressure levels. This combined approach aims to correlate ultrasound data with tomographic and cardio-respiratory signals from a diverse patient group. During the study, researchers will evaluate lung involvement using ultrasound, assess emphysema types and interstitial lung disease features through CT scans, all at enrollment. Data collection includes ultrasound videos, CT images, and continuous physiological monitoring from the wearable sensors. The study involves both inpatients and outpatients with specific lung conditions and includes careful monitoring of skin reactions due to sensor application. The participation duration and follow-up details are based on the enrollment assessments and data collection periods.

CONDITIONS

Brief Title

Ultrasound and Respiratory Physiological Signals in Lung Diseases

Who Can Participate

Age: 18Years +

All Genders

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify if you...

Inpatients admitted with diffuse interstitial lung diseases during exacerbation OR infectious interstitial pneumonia not caused by SARS-CoV-2 OR acute COPD exacerbation.
Outpatients with pulmonary paraseptal and/or panlobular emphysema and/or COPD during stable phase.
Able to provide written informed consent.

You will not qualify if you...

History of skin irritation, redness, itching, or allergic skin symptoms.
Allergic reactions to adhesives or hydrogels.
Family history of adhesive skin allergies.
Presence of severe skin conditions such as wounds, burns, or damaged skin.
Exposure to strong magnetic fields in the study setting.
Presence of electromagnetic disturbances or significant ionizing radiation that may cause signal artifacts.
Use of external cardiac defibrillators.
Use of diaphragmatic pacers.
Use of extra cardiac stimulators.
Pregnancy.
Pediatric population.

Your Study Journey

Screening

Duration - 2 to 4 weeks

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.

1 visit (in-person)

Diagnostic Evaluation

Duration - 1 day

Participants undergo lung ultrasonography, computed tomographic scans, and patch-based cardio-respiratory evaluations to assess lung conditions and physiological signals.

1 enrollment visit (in-person)