Eczema caused by defects in the skin could reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, according to new research published in eLife. The immune response triggered by eczema could help prevent tumour formation by shedding potentially cancerous cells from the skin.

Professor Fiona Watt said: 'We are excited by our findings as they establish a clear link between cancer susceptibility and an allergic skin condition in our experimental model. They also support the view that modifying the body's immune system is an important strategy in treating cancer.

Media coverage included articles in the Daily Mail and the Telegraph.

You can also read more about the story on the King's College London website.

Professor Fiona Watt and Dr Esther Hoste were interviewed about their findings for the eLife podcast.