Melanoma in HIV
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Melanoma in HIV infection: Presence of concurrent cutaneous viruses and assessment of immunogenotype
IRAS ID
192031
Contact name
Christopher Bunker
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Chelsea & Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust & West Middlesex University Hospital
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 5 days
Research summary
Introduction:
Our study aims to explore the role viruses might play in melanoma (cancer of the pigment producing cells in the skin) in the setting of a lowered immune system (immunosuppressed) secondary to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We are going to compare samples of melanoma from patients with and without HIV. We are also going to compare benign (non-cancerous) moles between the same groups. We are looking for the presence of viruses in the skin, looking at the response of the patient's immune system to the skin cancer (immunophenotype), and certain hereditary characteristics of the the patient's immune system (immunogenotype).Hypothesis:
Melanoma arising in the setting of HIV demonstrates differences in types of concomitant viruses found in the skin, along with varied immunophenotypic and immunogenotypic characteristics compared with melanoma arising in the absence of HIV.Background:
Individuals who are immunosuppressed have been shown to have higher rates of melanoma than the general population. We also know that certain viruses play a role in the development of other types of cancer in immunosuppressed people.Methods:
Our study will involve analyzing tissue samples taken as part of standard, routine care for adult patients with suspected skin cancers. If possible, participants will be asked to provide a single blood sample for HLA analysis (immunogenotype). No further participation from patients is required.Aims:
We hope that increased knowledge of factors contributing to development of melanoma will lead to potential innovations in prevention, monitoring and treatment.REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0054
Date of REC Opinion
2 Feb 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion