Term of the Day

Natural History Study

A natural history study is a preplanned intended to track the course of the disease. Its purpose is to identify demographic, genetic, environmental, and other variables (e.g., treatment modalities, concomitant medications) that correlate with the disease’s development and outcomes. Natural history studies are likely to include patients receiving the current standard of care and/or emergent care, which may alter some manifestations of the disease.

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Interactive Response Technology (IRT)

IRT stands for Interactive Response Technology. Another term that has been used to describe this technology is 'randomization and trial supply management'. Essentially, IRT helps clinical trial sponsors and sites manage the patient and drug supply logistics throughout a clinical trial.