Study Details
The Relationship of Port Wine Stains and Melanoma
(IRB#: IRB_00152848)
Port-wine stains (PWS) are a common, benign (non-cancerous) birthmark caused by defects in blood vessels in the skin. PWS are made up of not well-developed capillaries (small blood vessels). This enlarges the vessels and causes a reddish area on the skin. The study wants to see if there is a common cause explaining the possible relationship between Port Wine Stains at birth and melanoma (a serious type of skin cancer) later in life. People in the study will have two small biopsies taken from the skin. This means a tool will take a small sample of skin tissue. Participants will have a biopsy of the port wine stain, and one biopsy of normal skin (no PWS or discoloration present). Participants will also give a saliva sample (spit in a tube). Photographs will be taken of the PWS. Being in the study requires attending a one-time in-person visit at the study clinic. The visit lasts about 20 minutes.
- All genders
- Over 18 years old
- Volunteers with special conditions
- In Person
- Paid
Who can participate?
Gender: All genders
Age: Over 18 years old
Volunteers: Volunteers with special conditions
Location: In Person
Inclusion Criteria
- Ages 18 years and older
- History of at least one biopsy-proven melanoma with specific criteria
- Have a PWS defined as a simple capillary malformation (flat, red, pink, or purple patch of skin)
- Speak English
- Able to attend in person at the study clinic
Exclusion Criteria
- Pregnant
- Mental, visual, or hearing health issues that impact participation
- Serious disease or health problems
Will I be paid for my time?
Yes
IRB#: IRB_00152848
PI: Alice Frigerio
Department: DERMATOLOGY
Approval Date: 2022-07-13 06:00:00
Specialties: Dermatology
I am Interested