Laser-based Photoacoustic Tomography of Human Inflammatory Arthritis
Start Date
12/1/2011
Completion Date
1/1/2027
Summary
The purpose of this feasibility study is to determine if a new emerging technology called photoacoustic tomography (PAT) can be adapted for use in humans for the detection of chronic rheumatoid arthritis.
Detailed Description
The objective of this proposal is to adapt photoacoustic tomography (PAT), a novel, nonionizing, noninvasive, laser-based technology, for structural and functional imaging of human peripheral joints affected by inflammatory arthritis. Combining the advantages of both light and ultrasound scanning, PAT holds promise to present objective optical information in subsurface joint tissues with high sensitivity and high spatial resolution. This could be of considerable help in the early detection of inflammatory joint diseases. PAT may also prove useful in further understanding the pathophysiology of these disorders and assisting with therapeutic decisions, including assessment of new pharmacological therapies. In January 2026, the decision was made to reopen recruitment for this study to collect additional data to support future clinical trial work and funding.
Eligibility Criteria
Age Range: 18 years to No maximum
Interventions
Laser Based Photoacoustic Tomography, MRI, Ultrasound
laser based photoacoustic tomography, MRI, ultrasound
Conditions
Locations
Universtity of Michigan Health System
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
United States