Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease causing painful nodules and tunnels, with major impact on quality of life. Mild cases are treated with topical antibiotics, while moderate to severe HS often requires long-term systemic therapy. Recently, the TNF inhibitor adalimumab has marked an important advance in treatment.

This study will explore the molecular mechanisms of HS through skin biopsies from affected and unaffected areas, using RNA sequencing and Spatial Transcriptomics. The goal is to identify molecular pathways and genetic markers, focusing on cell clusters and interactions within tunnels versus nodules. Secondary aims include evaluating changes with adalimumab and comparing responders to non-responders.

Led by Dr. John Frew at The Skin Hospital, the trial will recruit 10 adult HS patients who meet specific inclusion criteria. Findings are expected to provide new insights and guide the development of more targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.

This research is poised to provide valuable insights into HS, potentially paving the way for new therapeutic approaches that improve outcomes and quality of life for HS patients.

Dermatologists at The Skin Hospital (TSH), led by Dr Simon Lee and Dr Gilberto Moreno, are conducting a study to better understand outcomes in patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). The Mohs Microscopic Registry collects comprehensive data on demographics, tumour characteristics, recurrence rates, and surgical outcomes to improve patient management and long-term care.

By creating a centralized database, the registry enables researchers to identify trends that enhance diagnosis, treatment, and post-operative care, while supporting global collaboration to standardize practices. With non-melanoma skin cancers highly prevalent in Australia, the registry offers a unique platform to study recurrence rates, practice patterns, and quality outcomes in MMS over time.

Sub-projects include:

• Provision of MMS services to patients outside metropolitan Sydney
• Factors linked to patient-initiated communication after MMS
• Analysis of scalp tumours treated with MMS at a large Australian centre

This project aims to explore the molecular mechanisms driving inflammation in Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), with a particular focus on the IL-23 and TYK2 signalling pathways. Using single-nuclei sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, we will analyse bio-banked patient samples from individuals treated with IL-23 inhibitors.

By mapping cellular interactions and transcriptional changes within affected tissues, this study seeks to uncover how IL-23 blockade influences disease biology, and whether TYK2 acts as a key downstream mediator. Findings may guide the development of novel targeted therapies and optimise treatment strategies for HS.

Research lead : Dr Haady Fallah

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common conditions in Australia, affecting up to 93% of adolescents. Its presentation ranges from mild comedonal acne to severe inflammatory disease that can cause permanent scarring. Treatment is tailored to severity, with options including topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin. Beyond physical symptoms, acne significantly impacts quality of life, contributing to reduced self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

Oral isotretinoin is the gold standard for severe or scarring acne, offering the potential for long-term remission. However, up to 15% of patients experience a paradoxical acne flare in the first weeks of treatment. These flares vary from mild inflammation to severe, fulminant reactions, which may cause lasting scarring and distress. Risk factors include male sex, macrocomedones, and severe baseline acne, though the role of modifiable factors such as dosing strategies, concurrent antibiotics or antihistamines, and prior antibiotic use remains poorly defined.

To address these gaps, this project proposes a real-world prospective cohort study to better understand flare rates, prescribing patterns, and predictors of risk. Insights will help refine isotretinoin initiation protocols, reduce flare incidence, and improve patient outcomes.

A strong emphasis will be placed on partnering with consumers. Adolescents will receive age-appropriate education and support for self-management. Study materials, including consent forms, will be designed in accessible, youth-friendly language. De-identified results will be shared with participants who opt in, and informal feedback will be gathered from dermatologists and clinic staff to enhance study design and implementation.

Research lead : Dr Lisa Abbott

This study explores the integration of AI-powered scribes in Australian dermatology, focusing on their impact on workflow, clinician satisfaction, and barriers to adoption. AI scribes, which use speech recognition and machine learning to transcribe doctor–patient consultations, have the potential to reduce documentation time and ease administrative workload.

A national survey of 200 dermatologists and trainees will assess current awareness, perceptions, and concerns regarding AI scribes, with particular attention to issues of data privacy, security, and regulatory compliance. The study also seeks to identify facilitators that could support safe and effective adoption, alongside challenges that may hinder implementation.

Findings will inform the development of policies, best-practice guidelines, and educational resources, ensuring that AI tools are integrated ethically and effectively into dermatology practice. Results will be presented at conferences and published, contributing to the wider discussion on AI adoption in Australian healthcare.

Research lead : Dr Pooja Kadam

This prospective observational cohort study investigates both the objective and subjective outcomes of laser therapy for rosacea across Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI. The primary objective is to assess treatment effectiveness using VISIA imaging analysis. Secondary aims include evaluating patient-reported outcomes, comparing experiences between individuals with skin of colour (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) and lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick I–III), and identifying barriers and facilitators to accessing laser therapy among patients with skin of colour.

A total of 24 participants with rosacea undergoing laser therapy as part of routine clinical care will be recruited, with 4 patients per Fitzpatrick skin type group. Baseline assessments will include skin type classification and VISIA imaging, followed by standard laser treatment. Outcomes will be measured through repeat VISIA scans at 4 and 12 weeks and digital surveys via QR code to capture patient perceptions, satisfaction, and quality-of-life impacts.

Research lead : Dr Marra Aghajani

This study investigates the quality of life (QoL) outcomes of patients with non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), comparing experiences between those treated in urban and rural settings. The primary objective is to evaluate QoL disparities, while secondary aims include examining the influence of socioeconomic status (SES) and healthcare access, identifying barriers that contribute to inequalities, and informing strategies to improve patient-centred dermatological care.

A mixed-methods design will be used, combining quantitative analysis with an optional qualitative component. Two hundred adult participants (≥18 years, English-speaking, NMSC diagnosis) will complete an anonymous online questionnaire assessing QoL and demographics, recruited via QR codes, email, SMS, and social media.

Quantitative analysis will involve independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and multiple regression to adjust for confounders, with missing data addressed by multiple imputation. Qualitative data will undergo thematic analysis using NVivo software, generating insights into lived experiences and barriers to care.