Research

Studies on the Development and Maturation of the Immune System

Protocol Description

Young volunteers are needed to participate in a research study to investigate the development and maturation of the immune system and how immunity is altered in inflammatory diseases of childhood. Healthy children or children diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile myositis, chronic vascular inflammation or lymphoma may volunteer. The research study is being conducted to examine basic disease mechanisms. The research study is being conducted to examine basic disease mechanisms. The study does not include treatment or drugs and will not improve or affect current health status of study participants.

There is no out-of-pocket cost involved. Study participants will be offered $25 to help defray travel costs (gas, parking and minimal incidental expenses) to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center campus.

Eligibility Criteria

Participants must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with signed authorization of parents or legal guardian.

Boys: up to 17 years
Girls: up to 17 years

Requirements:
A one-time draw of a maximum of 15 cc (about 1 ¼ tablespoons) of blood depending on the weight of the child will be required. Participants may wish to consult their physician before volunteering.

Status: Open for Enrollment