Overview
Evaluate and study the immunologic changes to the ocular surface in cancer patients.
Description
This is a longitudinal natural history study to evaluate and study the immunologic changes to the ocular surface in cancer patients.
Two groups of subjects will be recruited for the study: 1) Pre-bone marrow transplant cancer patients. They will be evaluated every 3 months for 2 years.2) Normal control patients. They will be evaluated every 6 months for the duration of the study.
During each study visit, in addition to standard of care exams, certain biological specimens ( ocular surface wash, mucocellular material, corneal filaments, or impression cytology of conjunctiva, blood, or serum) will be collected.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adult patients (≥ 18 years of age) who visit the Eye clinic either in the UMGCCC within the UMD Hospital or the UMD Faculty Physicians Ophthalmology Practice at the UMD Professional Building or satellite locations for initial visits or established visits.
- The patient must be able to understand and sign and date the informed consent form approved by the IRB.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Vulnerable populations: neonates, children, prisoners, institutionalized individuals.
- Inability or refusal to provide informed consent.
- History of ocular surgery (except refractive surgery or cataract surgery)