DALLAS – Aug. 6, 2007 – Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center are seeking patients to participate in medical studies for depression, papilloma-induced voice disturbance and dental implants. All clinical trials are approved by UT Southwestern’s Institutional Review Board, which reviews them for benefits, risks, side effects and informed consent.

Depression

UT Southwestern Medical Center scientists are conducting research sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health on cognitive therapy for depression. To qualify, participants have to be drug free and not currently in psychiatric treatment. Symptoms of depression include loss of interest in activities, feeling tired or having low energy, sad moods, feeling guilty or worthless and having changes in weight or appetite. For more information, please call 214-648-5351.

Papilloma-induced voice disturbance

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center are studying Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP). The most common manifestation of this chronic disease is warts on the vocal folds, which tend to recur. The warts cause hoarseness and if left unchecked can grow large enough to obstruct the airway and cause shortness of breath. Eligible participants are people diagnosed with RRP before the age of 18. Their biological parents will also be eligible. If a parent is unwilling or unable to participate, the patient’s biological siblings who share the nonparticipating parent then will be eligible. Patients in remission are also eligible to participate. For more information, please call 214-648-9793.

Dental implants

Physicians in the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center are looking for people with loose fitting lower complete dentures to participate in an implant study. The investigation will determine whether an implant-supported denture improves a person’s biting force and jaw muscle efficiency. Study candidates must have a complete upper and lower denture and be non-smokers to qualify. Volunteers who meet the trial criteria will undergo the procedure at no charge. Study participants must return for four follow-up visits to complete bite-force testing. For additional information, call Sarah Ray at 214-645-3990.

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More clinical trials

Media Contact: Katherine Morales
214-648-3404
e-mail: katherine.morales@utsouthwestern.edu

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