Tiny skin tests reveal psoriasis nerve clues

NCT ID NCT02652065

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Hospices Civils de Lyon Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at how skin blood flow and nerve sensitivity differ in psoriasis plaques compared to healthy skin. Twenty adults with psoriasis on their back received mild electrical currents to deliver vasodilators (acetylcholine, sodium nitroprussiate, or plain water) into both plaque and healthy skin. Blood flow was tracked with laser Doppler, and nerve sensitivity was tested with fine filaments. The goal was to understand the link between nerve function and skin inflammation in psoriasis.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: acetylcholine, sodium nitroprussiate, and purified water delivered via iontophoresis
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help explain why psoriasis causes pain or discomfort, potentially guiding future treatments that target nerve-related inflammation.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early-stage observational study (20 people) that measures only temporary skin responses, not a treatment. Results may not lead to any new therapy.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

psoriasis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PSORIASIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hôpital Edouard Herriot - Service de Dermatologie et Vénéréologie

Lyon, 69437, France

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