RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Cutaneous Biomarkers in Atopic Eczema Using a Non-Invasive Micro-Suction Device in Babies

Eczema is a common skin condition in babies. This study aims to understand why some babies develop eczema and others don't. Researchers will use a very gentle, non-invasive device to collect a tiny amount of fluid from the top layer of babies' skin. This fluid contains chemical signals that can tell us a lot about skin health. They will compare these signals from healthy babies and babies with eczema to see what's different. The goal is to find new clues about what causes eczema and help develop better ways to prevent and treat it in the future. The device is designed to be comfortable and won't cause any pain or harm.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

King's College London

Enrolment target

Start

31 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2027

Eczema Atopic Dermatitis Atopic Eczema

What is this study about?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that makes skin red, itchy, and dry. It's becoming more common, affecting many children worldwide. This study wants to get a clearer picture of why eczema happens, especially in very young babies. Our bodies constantly send out tiny chemical messages, even from our skin. Scientists believe that by understanding these messages, particularly from babies with and without eczema, they can unlock secrets about the condition.

To do this, researchers will use a new, very gentle device. It doesn't involve needles or anything painful. Instead, it carefully collects a tiny bit of fluid from the surface of a baby's skin. This fluid, called interstitial skin fluid (ISF), contains important chemical signals that reflect what's happening inside the skin. By comparing these signals from healthy babies to those with eczema, the study hopes to pinpoint specific chemical differences. This could help us understand what causes the inflammation and itchiness in eczema.

Ultimately, the information gathered from this study is crucial for the future. By learning more about these skin signals in babies, researchers hope to develop better ways to prevent eczema from starting and to find more effective treatments that can bring relief to babies and their families. It's all about gaining a deeper understanding to improve care.

Key takeaways

This study investigates eczema in babies.
It uses a new, gentle device to collect skin fluid samples.
The goal is to understand eczema's causes and find better treatments.
Participation involves one short, comfortable visit.
Both healthy babies and babies with eczema can join (under 6 months old).
It's safe, non-invasive, and won't cause discomfort.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two groups of babies to take part: healthy babies and babies who have eczema. All babies must be under 6 months old. It's important that their parents or guardians are able to understand and sign consent forms and follow the study instructions.

There are a few reasons a baby might not be able to join. For example, if they were born prematurely (before 37 weeks), or if they have another serious health problem or a major skin condition that isn't eczema. Also, parents or guardians must be able to speak English to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Is your baby under 6 months old?
Does your baby have eczema, or is your baby healthy without eczema?
Are you able to provide written permission for your baby to join?
Are you comfortable understanding and following study instructions?
Was your baby born at or after 37 weeks of pregnancy?
Does your baby have any other serious health conditions?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If your baby takes part, you will come for one visit that will last about 1 to 1.5 hours. During this visit, we'll ask you some questions about your baby's health, any medicines they take, and their skincare routine. If your baby has eczema, we'll do a quick check to see how severe it is.

The main part of the visit involves collecting some samples from your baby's skin. This will be done using a special, gentle device that collects a tiny amount of fluid from the skin surface – it's completely painless and won't hurt your baby or damage their skin. We'll also take some skin swabs and use tape strips to collect samples, which are also painless. Finally, we'll use another non-invasive device to measure how well your baby's skin holds moisture, which is also comfortable and causes no discomfort.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part is contributing to a better understanding of eczema in babies, which could lead to improved prevention and treatments in the future. There are no direct health benefits for your baby from participating. The study is designed to be very safe and gentle, using non-invasive methods that should not cause any discomfort, pain, or skin damage. You are free to withdraw your baby from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your baby's medical care.

Locations (1)

St Thomas' Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is interstitial skin fluid (ISF)?

ISF is a tiny amount of fluid found just under the very top layer of your baby's skin. It contains important chemical messages that can tell us about skin health.

Will the device hurt my baby?

No, the device is designed to be very gentle and non-invasive. It won't cause any pain, bruising, or damage to your baby's skin.

How many times will we need to visit?

You will only need to come for one visit, which will last about 1 to 1.5 hours.

What is the purpose of this study?

The study aims to understand what causes eczema in babies by looking at chemical signals in their skin. This information could help develop new ways to prevent and treat eczema.

Can babies with healthy skin participate?

Yes, the study is looking for both healthy babies and babies with eczema to compare their skin samples.

How to find out more

Preeti Khurana

gstt.carestudy@nhs.net 020 7188 7188 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.