melanoma

2024 DF Clinical Symposium

The DF Clinical Symposium has a reputation for excellence that attracts hundreds yearly to receive a serious, in-depth medical educational experience and support the Foundation’s work.

Cancer Overdiagnosis: A Dermatopathologist’s Perspective

Dr. Bennett shared his perspective on melanoma overdiagnosis and how to address the problem. First, Dr. Bennett advised dermatologists to be careful about the language they use to describe melanoma screening and diagnosis. “Overdiagnosis” means using current diagnostic criteria to correctly diagnose a condition that may not harm the patient. Overdiagnosis does not mean misdiagnosis….

Skin Cancer Disparities in Patients with Skin of Color

The incidence of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma is significantly lower in darker skin types. In Black people, BCC is 2000-fold less common, and SCC is 500–1000-fold less common compared to non-Hispanic white people. Melanoma-related mortality rates in the US-based Black population has been declining during the past 20 years. Non-white race is associated with later melanoma detection and lower survival rates. Multiple risk factors have been proposed for skin cancers in skin of color including immunosuppression and previous scaring. More research is needed to understand the primary drivers of skin cancer in skin of color.

2023 DF Clinical Symposium

The DF Clinical Symposium is the national medical education event that attracts dermatologists, residents, and non-physician clinicians seeking a serious, in-depth educational experience. In its 20th year, this peer-reviewed continuing medical education program delivers cutting-edge talks from today’s specialty experts on every aspect of dermatology.

Bringing Research from Bench to Bedside

Dr. Chen presented on dermatologic immune-related adverse events (D-irAEs) and the role of dermatology specialists in the care of patients who are treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).