Clinical Trial: Recalcitrant Pruritus in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

Study Status: Terminated
Recruit Status: Terminated
Study Type: Interventional

Official Title: Recalcitrant Pruritus in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

Brief Summary: The purpose of this study is to define the mechanisms that underlie the refractory pruritus (itch) in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL).

Detailed Summary: Little is known about the fundamental cause of pruritus in CTCL, however we do know the malignant CD4+ T-cells of CTCL accumulate in the epidermis and are in close proximity to the neural, immune and vascular systems that influence and regulate the biology of the skin. The close proximity of malignant CD4+ T-cells with the key mediators in the itch process could result in the pruritus experienced by patients with CTCL. To accomplish this we are collecting and examining skin biopsies for CTCL patients and healthy controls to identify itch-associated local biomarkers of the disease. In addition to these skin biopsies, we are retrospectively examining existing paraffin-embedded skin biopsy tissue blocks from CTCL patients. We are performing comparative and quantitative immunohistochemical analyses on the samples. This study will help to determine which components in the skin are potential key players in the manifestation and maintenance of recalcitrant pruritus in patients with CTCL.
Sponsor: University of Minnesota - Clinical and Translational Science Institute

Current Primary Outcome: Collection of biopsies from pruritic CTCL patients, non pruritic CTCL patients and controls and analysis of a panel of itch-associated local biomarkers in an attempt to characterize and quantify the components in the skin involved. [ Time Frame: 3 years ]

Original Primary Outcome: Same as current

Current Secondary Outcome:

Original Secondary Outcome:

Information By: University of Minnesota - Clinical and Translational Science Institute

Dates:
Date Received: February 24, 2009
Date Started: December 2008
Date Completion:
Last Updated: March 28, 2014
Last Verified: March 2014