SMaRT-IO: Invitation to Participate in a National Multi-Centre Service Evaluatio

We would like to share an opportunity for Colleagues to contribute to SMaRT-IO (Immunotherapy in patients with Skin Malignancy and Renal Transplant), a multi-centre service evaluation investigating the use of immunotherapy in renal transplant recipients diagnosed with skin malignancies.

The project, developed in collaboration with dermatologists and renal physicians, is supported by the National Oncology Trainees Collaborative for Healthcare Research (NOTCH) initiative and the UK Skin Cancer Clinical Trials Group.

About the Project

Renal transplant recipients are at increased risk of developing skin cancers due to the long-term immunosuppression required to prevent organ rejection. However, these patients are frequently excluded from major immunotherapy trials because of concerns regarding potential complications, including graft damage or rejection.

With limited published evidence, particularly from the UK, SMaRT-IO aims to improve our understanding of immunotherapy use and outcomes in this patient population.

Who Can Contribute?

The study team is inviting centres across the UK to contribute anonymised data relating to renal transplant recipients with melanoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) or Merkel cell carcinoma who commenced immunotherapy between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2025.

This includes patients with localised, advanced or metastatic disease who received immunotherapy with adjuvant or palliative intent.

Data will be collected securely using the REDCap platform, following a predefined protocol.

How to Get Involved

Centres interested in participating are encouraged to engage with their local Trust Audit department at an early stage, as a data sharing agreement will be required before data collection can commence.

For further information or to express an interest in participating, please contact:

Dr Sophie Trotter
Medical Oncology Registrar, Weston Park Cancer Centre, Sheffield
NIHR Academic Clinical Fellow, University of Sheffield
Email: sophie.trotter4@nhs.net

The study team anticipates preparing the findings for publication in late 2027.

Please find attached the invitation letter from the SMaRT-IO study team, which provides further information about the project and participation requirements.

We would encourage colleagues involved in immunotherapy and skin cancer services to consider supporting this important initiative and to share the opportunity with relevant colleagues within their organisations.

Letter of Invite Contact Dr Sophie Trotter