Using laser treatment to protect older skin from skin cancer
Effectiveness of Fractionated Laser Resurfacing to Protect Geriatric Skin From Actinic Neoplasia
This study tests if a special laser treatment can help older adults with actinic keratosis reduce their chances of developing skin cancer in the future.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Wright State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dayton, Ohio) |
| Trial ID | NCT03906253 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of fractionated laser resurfacing (FLR) in treating geriatric patients with actinic keratosis, a precursor to skin cancer. By applying FLR to one forearm, researchers aim to evaluate both the immediate removal of actinic keratosis and the long-term reduction of future skin cancer occurrences compared to an untreated forearm. The study builds on previous findings that FLR can enhance the skin's response to UVB light in older adults, potentially offering a durable protective effect lasting at least two years.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older with a recent diagnosis of actinic keratosis and fair skin types.
Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled diabetes, significant skin conditions, or those on certain medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly reduce the incidence of actinic keratosis and non-melanoma skin cancers in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with fractionated laser resurfacing in enhancing skin responses, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with Actinic Keratosis within the past 6 months * At least 60 years of age, or older * Ability to comprehend procedures and risks versus benefits * Able to provide Informed Consent * Fair Skin (Fitzpatrick Type I or II) * Possess both Right and Left Forearms Exclusion Criteria: * Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus * Not able to comprehend procedures or risks versus benefits * Pregnant or nursing * Large tattoos on forearms * History of abnormal healing or scarring (i.e., keloids) * Any disease that gets worse while in the sun * Use of topical or oral anti-inflammatory medication or steroids * Allergy to lidocaine * Current use of photosensitizing medication
Where this trial is running
Dayton, Ohio
- Dayton VA Medical Center — Dayton, Ohio, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jeffrey B Travers, MD, PhD — Wright State University
- Study coordinator: Manager, Clinical Research Operations
- Email: pturesearch@wrightstatephysicians.org
- Phone: 937-245-7500
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.