Pathogenic Exosomes During Herpes Zoster Mediate Increased Vascular Dementia Risk.
Center for Clinical Studies, Texas
Summary
The purpose of this observational research study is to study if patients with herpes zoster, also known as Shingles, have a higher risk of vascular dysfunction (problems with blood vessels, including stroke) and vascular dementia (problems with mental decline as a result of decreased blood flow to the brain) compared to patients without herpes zoster. Patients are evaluated based on the group they are assigned too: 1. Herpes Zoster (HZ) Group: individuals presenting with untreated herpes zoster. These participants will have 6 visits: * Day 1 = 1st day presenting to clinic with acute zoster * 7 days post zoster * 1 month after Day 1 * 3 months after Day 1 * 6 months after Day 1 * 12 months after Day 1 2. Control Group: individuals without herpes zoster o Day 1 (only 1 visit will be completed) This study does not have a study medication/device. Standard of care for all patients will be followed.
Description
Vascular dementia: Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer's disease and is characterized broadly as a loss of blood supply to the brain and compromised blood-brain barrier (BBB) ultimately leading to brain atrophy and cognitive impairment. Cerebrovascular insults such as stroke, myocardial infarctions, inflammation, and hyperactive platelets (thrombosis) are contributors and risk factors for the development of vascular dementia. Recently viruses have been identified as potential risk factors. Varicella zoster virus (VZV) and vascular dysfunction: VZV is a…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: At the Screening Visit (Visit 1/Day 1), all participants must meet all the following criteria in order to be considered for participation in the study: 1. Be a male or female ≥ 18 years of age. 2. Present to clinic for routine dermatologic evaluation with or without rash. 3. Are willing and able to complete study visits and procedures, and able to effectively communicate with the investigator and other study personnel. 4. Have adequate venous access and are willing to undergo venipuncture for blood draws. 5. Able to provide written informed consent prior to any study proc…
Locations (2)
- Center for Clinical Studies, LTD. LLPHouston, Texas
- Center for Clinical Studies, LTD. LLPWebster, Texas