Shaping the future of psoriasis and eczema treatment

The itch that won’t stop. The dry, irritated skin that flares up without warning. The painful patches that make everyday life uncomfortable.

For those living with eczema or psoriasis, there is new reason for hope. Right here in Northeast Ohio, adults and children with these chronic skin conditions have an opportunity to gain access to new promising medications through clinical trials at Apex Clinical Research Center.

While the medical staff at Apex Skin’s 15 dermatology offices provides expert care to patients locally, its research division—Apex Clinical Research Center—is helping advance dermatology care worldwide.

“We are expanding patient access to leading-edge therapies,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jorge Garcia-Zuazaga, founder of Apex Skin. “We believe no patient should be left behind. These clinical trials give patients the earliest access to advanced treatments for chronic skin conditions.”

Participants receive all study-related care, including thorough physical exams, bloodwork and EKGs, at no cost, while gaining access to promising new treatments before they become widely available. In many studies, participants also receive a stipend to compensate for time and travel. 



The center enrolls patients in new studies throughout the year and currently has several trials evaluating medications for psoriasis and eczema—medically referred to as atopic dermatitis—in both adults and children. 

Psoriasis and eczema can cause persistent itching, dryness and painful, scaly patches. Beyond the physical discomfort, flare-ups can disrupt sleep, affect self-confidence and contribute to anxiety.

“We are studying new TYK2 inhibitors and targeted immunotherapies that focus on specific pathways that lead to inflammation and ways to block those pathways to help calm the immune system,” says Marlise Fletter, CNP, network lead investigator, who has spent more than a decade working in the Apex’s dermatology office. “These medicines have already been deemed safe and effective, but we are looking to see if some of them may be even more effective.”

For Marlise, working in clinical research has been a rewarding transition from clinical practice.

“In clinical practice, I saw many patients with psoriasis and eczema,” she says. “While new medications were introduced regularly, I couldn’t really appreciate how targeting the immune system could have such a dramatic effect in controlling disease. These medications also weren’t often covered by insurance, so I felt limited in what I could offer patients.”

“Now that I am involved in clinical trials, I can better understand how these drugs work. I see the new drugs get more specific with the inflammatory pathways they target, and patients respond to the medications more rapidly and with fewer side effects. We also can provide these medications free to patients who participate in our trials. It is truly life-changing for many.”

Recognized as a leader in its field, Apex Clinical Research Center is often among only a handful of research centers around the world selected to conduct these studies.

“We are a sought-after research center because we offer excellent care and make participating in studies inviting and enjoyable,” says Theresa Sedlak-Hanslik, vice president of research operations. “We are dedicated to making patients feel comfortable, informed and supported throughout their research journey.”

Apex Clinical Research Center

• 29111 Cedar Road, Mayfield Heights
• 4124 Munson Street NW, Canton
• 6150 Park Square Drive, Suite B, Lorain

440-940-2739

ApexClinicalResearchCenter.com