New publication: The DECODE VRL study concept now published in “Die Ophthalmologie”

We are very pleased to share an important update with you: The detailed study protocol and the scientific background of DECODE VRL study were officially published in the trade magazine Ophthalmology (formerly The ophthalmologist) published.

This article is titled “The DECODE VRL study — multicenter implementation and clinical validation of standardized, innovative molecular biological diagnostics for vitreoretinal lymphoma” lays the foundation for our current research work.

Why this release is important

Vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) represents a diagnostic challenge as an aggressive “masquerade syndrome.” Existing methods such as cytology often only achieve a maximum sensitivity of 70%, which can lead to delayed diagnoses.

In the work that has now been published, we describe in detail our approach to revolutionizing diagnostics through cutting-edge methods:

• Advanced diagnostics: Complementing classical methods with mutation analyses, NGS-based clonality analyses and miRNA analyses.

• Multicenter approach: Close collaboration between ophthalmology, pathology and biometry across numerous centers in Germany.

• Clear goal: An earlier diagnosis for improved treatment outcomes and patients' chances of survival.

Overview of key data from the study

The article also provides a transparent insight into the study design:

• Design: Multicenter, observational prospective cohort study.

• Number of cases: The plan is to enroll 220 patients.

• Funding: The project is supported by German Cancer Aid promoted.

• locations: In addition to the study leaders in Lübeck, Chemnitz and Tübingen, numerous other university hospitals (including Berlin, Freiburg, Munich) are already involved or under development.

Further information

The article is now available online for all colleagues and interested centers who would like to dive deeper into the methodology and the “trial flow”.

Do you have any questions about participation or the process?

You can find further details at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05841914) or contact the study director directly.