Mind and Skin - the Neurocutaneous Axis in Atopic Eczema
The 'Mind and Skin' study explores the connection between severe eczema and its impact on the brain, mental well-being, and thinking skills in teenagers aged 12-18. Researchers want to understand how body inflammation, constant itching, and poor sleep from eczema might lead to problems with brain function and mental health. They'll also investigate whether treatments that aim to calm the immune system improve these issues. The study involves looking at sleep patterns, brain scans, blood tests, and genetic information. It aims to provide a clearer picture of how eczema affects young people beyond just their skin, and how new treatments can potentially make a difference.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called 'Mind and Skin', is looking into how severe eczema affects young people between the ages of 12 and 18. Eczema isn't just a skin condition; it can cause intense itching, which often leads to very restless nights and can have a big impact on a person's daily life and feelings. We know there's a link between eczema and how well people think or feel emotionally, but we don't fully understand why this happens. This research hopes to shed light on these connections.
Researchers want to understand if the ongoing itching, inflammation in the body, and disturbed sleep from eczema are actually causing changes in the brain, affecting how young people think, learn, and feel. They will also look at whether new medications, which work by calming the immune system (like Methotrexate and Dupilumab), can help improve these problems once the eczema gets better. By understanding these links, the study hopes to find better ways to support young people with severe eczema.
To do this, the study will involve several different tests. Participants might wear sleep devices at home, have special brain scans (MRIs), and give blood samples to check for inflammation. Researchers will also look at genetic information and ask about how eczema affects daily life, including sleep. Some participants might be taking new treatments for their eczema, while others might be using creams for their skin or be healthy volunteers. The aim is to get a complete picture of how eczema impacts young people and how treatments might help.
Key takeaways
- Targets young people aged 12-18 with severe eczema.
- Investigates how eczema impacts the brain, mental health, and thinking skills.
- Looks at the role of inflammation, itching, and sleep problems.
- Examines whether new eczema treatments improve these related issues.
- Involves sleep devices, brain scans (MRI), blood tests, and questionnaires.
- Aims to improve understanding and future care for eczema sufferers.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be between 12 and 18 years old and have severe eczema that has been diagnosed by a skin specialist (dermatologist). You might be taking strong medicines for your eczema, or just using creams, or you could be a healthy volunteer without eczema.
It's important that you (or your parents/guardians, if you're under 16) understand the study and are happy to take part. You also need to be able to understand questionnaires and instructions in English, especially for things like comfort during brain scans.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. These include having any metal in your body that would make an MRI scan unsafe, or if you have severe claustrophobia (a fear of tight spaces) which would make the MRI difficult. You also can't have another formal sleep disorder that needs medication, or substance misuse, or be taking other medicines that might affect your sleep in a way that would make it hard to get accurate results for the study.
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.
- Am I aged between 12 and 18?
- Do I have severe eczema diagnosed by a skin specialist (dermatologist)?
- Am I able to understand English questionnaires and instructions?
- Do I have any metal in my body or severe claustrophobia that would prevent an MRI?
- Do I have another sleep disorder that needs medication, or am I taking medicines that might strongly affect my sleep?
- Am I willing to follow the study instructions?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be helping us understand more about eczema. The study will involve several different activities. You might be asked to wear a small device at home for a while to track your sleep. You'll also have special scans of your brain called MRIs, which are like detailed pictures. There will be some blood tests to check for inflammation and other markers. We might also collect small samples, like stool (poo) and skin swabs, to look at the tiny germs that live in and on your body.
Researchers will also ask you to fill out questionnaires about how you're feeling and how eczema affects your daily life. There might be group discussions (focus groups) where you can share your experiences with other young people who have eczema. The study does not specify an exact duration, but it will involve multiple appointments and ongoing follow-up to see how any improvements in your eczema might affect your brain, mood, and thinking.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Unit for Paediatric and Population-based Dermatology ResearchVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is the 'Mind and Skin' study about?
It's about how severe eczema, constant itching, and poor sleep might affect the brain, mental health, and thinking abilities in young people.
Who can take part in this study?
Young people aged 12-18 with severe eczema diagnosed by a specialist, or healthy volunteers. You need to understand English and be willing to participate.
What will I have to do if I join?
You might wear a sleep device, have brain scans (MRI), give blood samples, and fill out questionnaires. There might also be group discussions.
Are there any real risks?
Risks are low. Blood tests can cause minor bruising. MRI scans involve lying in a small space, which some people find uncomfortable, but safety checks are always done.
Will taking part help my eczema?
The study itself won't directly treat your eczema, but it will help researchers learn more, which could lead to better treatments and support for others in the future.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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