NIH Reporter #1ZIAAR041224-04

Investigation of skin cancer and skin disease

This award supports research investigating various skin diseases including skin cancers, inflammatory conditions, and adverse events related to cancer treatments. The research involves studying novel cancer immunotherapy effects, biomarkers for melanoma, and skin inflammation in immunocompromised patients, aiming to improve diagnosis and treatment.

Description

We have been investigating skin diseases in patients using multiple approaches. This includes studying skin cancers, inflammatory dermatoses, skin diseases arising in patients with immunosuppression, and skin adverse events related to cancer treatments. Specifically, we are investigating skin tumors that arise in patients taking a novel cancer immunotherapy fusion protein as well as immune related adverse events related to immuno-oncology agents. We are also studying sebaceous carcinoma of the skin. Another project is using proteogenomics to identify diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic biomarkers for melanoma. Skin adverse events related to targeted anti-cancer agents are also of interest. We have also identified an increased risk for superficial fungal infections associated with a specific form of immunodeficiency. In addition, we are studying the effects of demodex mites on skin inflammation in patients who have received hematopoietic cell transplants. These investigations are done in parallel with the clinical management of the patients' complaints. Approaches include analyzing clinical biospecimens, conducting retrospective chart reviews, and developing novel therapeutic approaches. Rare skin cancers and rare presentations of common skin cancers are also of interest.

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