Blood markers could spot hidden skin cancer return

NCT ID NCT04705389

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University Hospital, Tours Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study follows 35 people with Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive skin cancer, to see if two blood markers (T-antigen antibodies and miR-375) can detect when the cancer comes back. Currently, follow-up relies on physical exams and scans, which may miss early recurrences. By tracking these markers over time, researchers hope to develop a non-invasive tool to guide when imaging is needed.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple blood test to catch cancer recurrence earlier, potentially improving treatment timing and outcomes.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study with only 35 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The biomarkers might not prove reliable enough for routine use.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Academic Hospital of Maastricht

Maastricht, Netherlands
Department of Dermatology, Başkent University Faculty of Medicine

Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)
Department of Dermatology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Bucharest, 050474, Romania
Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna

Vienna, Austria
Dermatology Dept, Hospital University of Tours

Tours, 37044, France
National Tumour Institute "Fondazione G. Pascale" Unit of Melanoma - Cancer Immunotherapy and Innovative therapy

Naples, 80131, Italy
Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Birmingham, United Kingdom
Skin Cancer and Surgery Center, Sahlgrenska University Hospital

Gothenburg, Sweden
Translational Skin Cancer Research

Essen, 45141, Germany
University Hospital of Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, 00100, Finland

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