Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation Causes Study

ALK1 Signaling in Development of Superior Cavopulmonary Anastomosis-Associated Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations

Protocol Description

The purpose of this research is to better understand the development of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in children following vascular surgery addressing problems caused by some congenital heart conditions. AVMs can lower blood oxygen levels, creating new risks for the patient. Researchers theorize that certain proteins made in the liver and heart that may help prevent development of AVMs may not be reaching the lungs following surgery. The research will compare levels of two proteins, bone morphogenetic proteins 9 and 10 (BMP9 and BMP10), in blood taken from different parts of the heart.

Eligibility Criteria

The study is enrolling people ages 2 months through 17 years, with or without structural heart disease, who are scheduled for a clinically indicated cardiac catheterization.
Males and Females: Ages 2 months through 17 years

Requirements

During the patient’s heart catheterization blood will be drawn from 5 locations, as per routine care, and will be analyzed to determine the amount of BMP9 and BMP10 present to determine if there are higher levels entering the lungs than exiting.
Visits: None beyond those required for treating the given condition Duration: Not applicable

Status: Enrollment Pending

Source(s) of Support

University of Pittsburgh Heart, Lung, and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute

Primary Investigator

Sara Trucco, MD

Contact Information

For more information about the study, please contact:
Morgan Hindes, Research Coordinator
412-692-6516