Using laser treatment to prevent skin cancer in older adults with precancerous lesions

The Preventive Role of Fractionated Laser Resurfacing Against Actinic Neoplasia in an At-Risk Geriatric Population

Not applicable Interventional Wright State University · NCT06428721

This study tests if a special laser treatment can help older adults with precancerous skin spots avoid developing skin cancer.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWright State University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Fairborn, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT06428721 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates whether Fractionated Laser Resurfacing (FLR) can protect older adults with actinic keratosis (AKs) from developing skin cancer. Participants will have one forearm treated with FLR while the other forearm serves as a control. The study also aims to evaluate if skin photographs can predict the formation of AKs and skin cancers. The focus is on individuals aged 60 and older who have a specific number of AKs for monitoring purposes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 60 and older with 5 to 10 actinic keratoses on each forearm.

Not a fit: Patients with more than 10 actinic keratoses or those with significant health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer in older adults with precancerous lesions.

How similar studies have performed: This approach builds on ongoing research at the Dayton Veterans Administration dermatology clinic, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult Males and Females aged 60 and older
* Have at least 5 AKs on each forearm/wrist, but no more than 10 to allow for easy monitoring
* Skin type fair (Fitzpatrick I-II)
* Females must be post-menopausal and not be on systemic hormone replacement therapy
* Able to comprehend procedures and risks

Exclusion Criteria:

* More than 10 AKs on an extremity
* AKs that are large (2-3+, hyperkeratotic grade 3 lesions)
* AKs that are very thick (\>3 mm)
* Medical history of diabetes
* History of poor wound healing or scarring
* Large tattoos that can interfere with study
* Other serious health issues and other skin diseases that could interfere with the study
* Recent (within 1 year) field therapies such as efudex cream or PDT to forearms/wrists.
* Planning to leave region in next 5 years
* Subjects with allergies to xylocaine will be excluded if they need this topical anesthetic.

Where this trial is running

Fairborn, Ohio

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 Actinic KeratosesAgingNon-Melanoma Skin Cancer
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.