Skin Testing for Atopic eczema Risk (STAR)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A longitudinal investigation of skin barrier development from birth and the validation of early predictors of atopic eczema risk: the Skin Testing for Atopic eczema Risk (STAR) study
IRAS ID
213267
Contact name
Simon G Danby
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
Eczema is a chronic disease of the skin that is becoming more common worldwide for reasons unknown. Currently the best indicator that a baby will suffer from eczema is if either or both parents have the condition, although this is not always the case. The goal of this study is to find out if, from birth, the skin of babies who later go on to suffer from eczema develops differently to those who do not. By doing this we hope to detect early signs of the disease within the first year of life. Our researchers will ask 150 families from the local Sheffield community to take part in a 1-year study. To monitor baby skin development, we will carry out 3 simple procedures at the skin surface that pose no risk to the baby. These procedures will be performed on the arm and thigh, at birth, 4 weeks, and 12 months of age. In addition we will ask parents to answer questionnaires and fill out diaries at specific time points throughout the year, to collect information on how they care for their baby’s skin. By recording which babies go on to, and do not, develop eczema we hope to: (1) better understand baby skin development from birth, (2) identify if these simple procedures can predict the development of eczema during the first 12 months of life, and (3) investigate environmental effects that may cause disease onset. In a medical era where the prevention of eczema is the long-term goal, it is hoped that this study will provide a new way to identify babies that may go on to develop eczema. This will allow healthcare professionals to offer specific skin care advice from birth, and empower parents to take measured action to help prevent the emergence of eczema in their baby.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0848
Date of REC Opinion
1 Dec 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion