The Department of Dermatology is actively engaged in numerous clinical research pursuits, working towards an enhanced understanding of cutaneous disease and innovative new treatments for patient care. As a referral center for complex dermatologic cases, an established collaborative partner with physicians at the National Institutes of Health, and a diverse patient population, GW Dermatology is uniquely positioned for excellence in clinical research.
Current projects include investigator initiated studies and industry supported clinical trials. Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and autoimmune dermatology are of particular interest, and comprise a major portion of research efforts. Examples include:
- Multi-center clinical trials for new biologic drug treatments of severe psoriasis and atopic dermatitis
- Multi-center open registry of patients with psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy including biologics
A list of current studies and recruitment status may be found online through the ClinicalTrials.gov database.
Participate in a Clinical Trial for Skin Reactions from Cancer Therapy
Help us advance research for better skin treatments during cancer care.
The George Washington Medical Faculty Associates Department of Dermatology is currently enrolling patients in a clinical research study evaluating a topical investigational treatment for skin toxicities caused by Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors (EGFRIs), medications commonly used to treat cancer.
About the Study
We are studying HT-001, a topical gel containing aprepitant, to assess its safety, effectiveness, and tolerability in treating skin side effects like rashes, dry skin, and nail changes linked to EGFRI therapy.
This investigational product may offer a targeted option to manage these side effects, which currently have no FDA-approved treatments.
- Study Name: CLEER Trial (Chemotherapy Longevity by Evading EGFR Inhibitor Reactions)
- Study Number: CLEER-001
- Principal Investigator: Dr. Adam Friedman, MD, FAAD
- ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05639933
Who Can Participate?
You may qualify if you:
- Are 18 years or older
- Have been prescribed an EGFRI for cancer treatment
- Have developed a rash or symptoms of a rash after starting EGFRI therapy
- Have an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status between 0–2
- Are able to attend in-person and telehealth visits over 8 weeks
- Are willing to apply a topical gel once daily and complete study assessments
Compensation: Participants will receive $78 per study visit for their time and effort plus additional $52 per visit to cover travel expenses.
Study Details
- Treatment Period: 6 weeks
- Follow-up Period: 2 weeks
- Visits: 6 to 8 clinic visits over 8 weeks (telehealth visits may also occur)
- Medication: Daily application of either HT-001 gel or placebo to the affected skin areas
- Procedures include: Physical exams, blood and urine tests, skin assessments, photography of affected areas (with facial privacy protections), and patient questionnaires.
Potential Risks and Benefits
While participating, you may experience skin redness, mild irritation, or other side effects associated with topical treatments.
You may potentially experience an improvement in your skin symptoms, although benefits cannot be guaranteed.
How to Join
If you or someone you know might be interested in participating, please contact our study team:
Joaquin Calderon, MD
Clinical Research Coordinator
Email: jcalderon [at] mfa [dot] gwu [dot] edu (jcalderon[at]mfa[dot]gwu[dot]edu)
Phone: (202) 741-2632
Secure Messaging (TigerText): Joaquin Calderon
Adam Friedman, MD, FAAD
Principal Investigator
Email: ajfriedman [at] mfa [dot] gwu [dot] edu (ajfriedman[at]mfa[dot]gwu[dot]edu)
Phone: (202) 741-2600
We are happy to answer any questions you may have!
Together, we can advance dermatologic care for people undergoing cancer therapy.