The Ohio State University Dermatology Biorepository, Molecular Biology and Genetics of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

A variety of molecular techniques can be used to investigate diseases by analyzing protein,
DNA, and RNA. Flow cytometry, PCR, histology and immunohistochemistry are assays which can
identify specific cell populations and provide valuable information regarding the pathologic
characteristics of those populations. Flow cytometry analyzes the surface markers of cells.
Histology and immunohistochemistry further characterize surface and cellular molecules and
aid in the diagnosis of certain skin diseases. Gene expression profiling allows investigators
to examine the genes detectable to determine the function of the cells involved, and PCR
techniques are useful for the diagnosis of certain conditions and for DNA analysis.

By procuring blood, skin tissue, and swab samples from patients with and without neoplastic
and inflammatory skin disorders at the time of their appointments, the hypothesize that
future translational research can be conducted on such specimens using the aforementioned
techniques to further understand disease mechanisms in cutaneous disorders, and to
potentially discover defective function and genetic mutations within cells from patients with
neoplastic and inflammatory skin disorders. By establishing a tissue bank, we aim to lay the
foundation for future work that will improve our understanding of the biology and natural
history of neoplastic and inflammatory cutaneous diseases.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Seen by an OSU Dermatology provider on the main University Hospital campus, including
the James Cancer Hospital, OSU Dermatology East, OSU Dermatology at the Ohio State Eye
and Ear Institute, Martha Morehouse Medical Pavilion, and OSU Dermatology at Upper
Arlington after the date of approval of this protocol

- Ability to provide informed consent, or parent or legal guardian capable of providing
consent for child or mentally handicapped individuals

- Willingness to participate in a research study.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Inability to provide informed consent