Analysis of childhood and adolescent melanocytic lesions

Molecular Analysis of Childhood and Adolescent Melanocytic Lesions

Observational St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NCT02775643

This study is looking to see how genetic changes in kids and teens with skin lesions, including melanoma, affect their treatment and outcomes, using information collected during their regular medical care.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Memphis, Tennessee)
Trial IDNCT02775643 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to collect clinical and molecular information from pediatric patients diagnosed with melanocytic lesions, including various types of melanoma. Researchers will analyze DNA and RNA from tumor and blood cells to identify genetic changes associated with tumor development and treatment response. The study will also gather information on treatments received and their effectiveness, without requiring additional procedures beyond standard medical care. Tumor samples will be obtained as part of routine diagnosis, and a small amount of blood will be collected for analysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pediatric patients under 19 years old with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of specific melanocytic lesions.

Not a fit: Patients with ocular melanoma or those unwilling to consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of pediatric melanoma and improve treatment strategies for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in analyzing genetic changes in tumors, making this approach promising but still focused on a specific pediatric population.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Participant has a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of a melanocytic lesion, including:

  * Conventional or "adult-type" melanoma
  * Spitzoid melanoma/atypical Spitz tumor
  * Congenital melanoma
  * Melanoma arising in a giant congenital nevus
  * Melanocytic lesions with indeterminate biological behavior (e.g., pigment synthesizing melanomas)
* Participant was \<19 years of age at the time of diagnosis.
* Tissue is available for biologic studies.
* Participant has been enrolled on the TBANK protocol at SJCRH, or will be enrolled before any research tests are performed on their biological materials.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Ocular melanoma
* Inability or unwillingness of research participant or legal guardian to consent.
* Histologic diagnosis other than melanocytic lesion described in 3.1.1.

Where this trial is running

Memphis, Tennessee

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions MelanomaSpitzoid MelanomaCongenital MelanomaMelanoma Arising in Giant NeviMelanocytic lesions with indeterminate biological behaviorPigment synthesizing melanomas
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.