NEOGLUCAN
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Beta-D-glucan (BDG) levels in serum of premature neonates: pilot study to determine baseline serum levels and dynamics (NEOGLUCAN).
IRAS ID
253230
Contact name
Laura Ferraras-Antolin
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
St George's University of London
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 1 days
Research summary
Invasive candidemia (IC) is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal intensive care unit. Culture is the gold standard for diagnosis of IC; nevertheless, the sensitivity of culture of sterile sites is particulary low in neonates compared to older children, hence, other non-culture based strategies have been developed, including Beta-D-Glucan (BDG). There are only a few studies assessing the performance of BDG in the neonatal population. The results suggest that BDG could be a valuable addition to the fungal diagnostic measures used. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to define the optimal cut-off levels for neonatal patients, the effect of other factors in the BDG levels and its potential to identify neonates with IC. \nThe aim of this pilot study is to provide information about the dynamics of BDG levels in a clinical setting and in a high risk population of neonates. This first step is essential for the understanding of BDG as a diagnostic tool and will provide the set up for larger studies addressing other questions relevant for its use. \n
REC name
South West - Central Bristol Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/SW/0227
Date of REC Opinion
15 Oct 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion