Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Optical Characterization and Multi-modality, Multi-scale Modeling of Human Skin Applied to Cancer Diagnosis.

This study, called OpticSkin, focuses on improving how doctors diagnose skin cancer, which is very common, particularly in people with fair skin. They are using special light-based technologies to look really closely at healthy skin, skin that might become cancerous, and skin that already has cancer. By studying how different types of skin react to these lights, and building a detailed database, the researchers hope to find unique 'signatures' that can help doctors tell the difference between healthy and unhealthy skin more accurately and earlier. This could lead to better tools to help diagnose skin cancer and ensure it's fully removed.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

Centre Hospitalier Régional Metz-Thionville

Enrolment target

140

Start

01 Feb 2026

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2029

Skin Cancer Diagnostic

What is this study about?

Imagine shining different kinds of light on your skin to help doctors understand if there are any tiny changes that might mean skin cancer. That's what the OpticSkin project is all about. Skin cancer is very common, especially in countries like the UK, and this study aims to find new and better ways to diagnose it, particularly for fair-skinned people.

Currently, doctors often take a small sample of skin (a biopsy) to look at under a microscope. This study is exploring how new technologies, using different types of light, could give doctors even more information. They're looking at things like how light bounces off your skin, how it's absorbed, and even how your skin glows naturally (autofluorescence). By gathering all this information from healthy skin, skin that might become cancerous, and skin that already has cancer, they're building a massive database. Think of it like creating a detailed 'fingerprint' for different skin conditions.

The main goal is to find unique patterns or 'signatures' in the way light interacts with skin that can tell doctors precisely what's going on. This could lead to quicker and more accurate diagnoses, potentially helping doctors make sure all cancer is removed during surgery. The study isn't about replacing current methods but adding powerful new tools to help doctors make the best decisions for their patients.

Key takeaways

Researchers are exploring new light-based methods for skin cancer diagnosis.
The study aims to create a detailed database of skin characteristics.
It focuses on common skin cancers and pre-cancerous conditions (actinic keratoses).
The goal is to improve diagnostic accuracy for skin cancer.
Participation contributes to future advancements in skin cancer detection.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be an adult, 18 years or older.

The study is specifically looking for people who have either been diagnosed with skin cancer (carcinomas) or have a condition called actinic keratoses. Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches on your skin that develop from years of sun exposure and can sometimes turn into skin cancer.

Anyone under the age of 18 cannot take part in this 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.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with skin cancer (carcinoma) OR with actinic keratoses?
Do you understand that this is a research study about improving diagnostic tools, not a treatment?
Are you comfortable with non-invasive light examinations of your skin?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study does not specify exact details of what taking part involves, such as the number of visits, specific assessments, or medication. However, based on the research description, it would likely involve having special light-based devices used to examine your skin. This would involve shining different types of light on areas of your skin, both healthy skin, and any areas related to skin cancer or actinic keratoses. These examinations are usually non-invasive, meaning they don't break the skin. The total duration of participation and whether there are any follow-up appointments are not mentioned.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part in this study is contributing to important research that could lead to better ways of detecting and diagnosing skin cancer in the future, ultimately helping many people. Since the study mainly involves using light to examine skin, the risks are expected to be very low, likely limited to minor discomfort or the time spent in appointments. You will not receive any direct medical recommendations or treatment outcomes from this research. Remember, taking part in any study is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw at any time without explanation.

Locations (1)

CHR Metz-Thionville
Verified postcode
Metz, France

Common questions

What kind of skin cancers are you studying?

We are focusing on common skin cancers called carcinomas, and also pre-cancerous spots known as actinic keratoses.

Will I get a diagnosis or treatment from this study?

No, this study is for research purposes only to develop better diagnostic tools. It will not provide you with a diagnosis or treatment.

What does 'optical characterization' mean?

It means we're using different types of light to 'look' at your skin in very detailed ways, like how it reflects or absorbs light, to find tiny differences.

Is the light painful?

The light-based methods used are generally non-invasive and painless, similar to having a light shone on your skin.

Who is funding this research?

The project, called OpticSkin, is supported by the Priority Research Program and Equipment for Light-Matter (PEPR LUMA).

How to find out more

Andreia CARVALHO DE FREITAS

projet-recherche-clinique@chr-metz-thionville.fr 0033387553323 Official trial record

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