Eye Tracking for Autism Detection
(RCFET Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how eye-tracking technology can help detect autism in young children. Participants will engage in a simple activity where researchers track their eye movements as they view pictures and movies. This non-invasive method gathers data that might improve autism detection. Families with children aged 12 to 48 months visiting certain clinics for developmental evaluations, and who have English- or Spanish-speaking caregivers, might be a good fit for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers families the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance early autism detection methods.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
What prior data suggests that this eye-tracking method is safe for children?
A previous study found eye-tracking technology to be safe and easy to use. This tool reveals where and how long individuals focus their gaze, highlighting differences in attention. Eye-tracking has been applied to both children with autism and those without. Research has shown that this technology does not cause harm or discomfort. It is non-invasive, requiring no medical procedures or physical contact. Consequently, participants typically find it easy to engage in activities involving eye-tracking.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it's exploring eye tracking as a tool for detecting autism, which could revolutionize early diagnosis. Unlike current methods, such as behavioral assessments and parental questionnaires, eye tracking provides an objective and non-invasive way to analyze how children visually engage with their environment. This technique could potentially identify autism earlier and more accurately, allowing for timely interventions that can significantly improve developmental outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this eye-tracking method is effective for autism detection?
Studies have shown that eye-tracking technology can effectively diagnose autism. One study found that eye-tracking data was nearly 100% accurate in distinguishing children with autism from those without. Another study linked specific eye movement patterns to autism diagnoses. Research also shows that eye-tracking provides clear and consistent measurements, aiding early autism detection. In this trial, children undergoing a standard developmental evaluation will participate in a one-time eye-tracking activity to further explore its potential as a valuable tool for identifying autism in children.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Rebecca R McNally Keehn, PhD, HSPP
Principal Investigator
IU School of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for young children aged 12-48 months who are patients at Riley Hospital for Children in Indiana. They must have caregivers who speak English or Spanish and can give consent. It's not open to kids younger than 12 months, older than 48 months, or those with non-English/Spanish-speaking caregivers.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Developmental Evaluation
Children undergo a standard of care developmental evaluation including a clinical interview and observational measures
Eye-Tracking Activity
Participants engage in a one-time eye-tracking activity to view pictures and movies while eye movements are tracked
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the eye-tracking activity
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Eye Tracking
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Indiana University
Lead Sponsor