PeDRA Pearls

In this episode of PeDRA Pearls, Jenn Dawson is joined by PeDRA Executive Director Mike Siegel and Outcomes Committee Chair Dr. Marcia Hogeling to recap key themes from the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) meeting. They discuss emerging trends in dermatology research, including the growing role of genetics, molecular diagnostics, multi-omics, and biologic therapies, as well as highlights from PeDRA's featured session on vascular anomalies, rare skin diseases, and RIME. The conversation also explores the importance of patient advocacy, collaboration between clinicians and basic scientists, and the exciting future of pediatric dermatology research.Announcements:Register for the Epidermolysis Bullosa webinar with Dr. Peter MarinkovichRegister for the 14th PeDRA Annual Conference

Meredith Weiss joins the podcast to discuss a study that was presented in the inaugural Gorlin Syndrome Alliance Round Table session at the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) meeting. Meredith is the Executive Director for the Gorlin Syndrome Alliance.Novel PTCH1 Variants in Gorlin Syndrome Identified through Genomic Analysis of 118 Patients. The authors of this study are:Ryan Kern*1, Amy Xiong1, Qianqian Wang2, Philip Beachy2, Jean Tang11Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States; 2Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United StatesPlease click here for more information about the Gorlin Syndrome Alliance.

Lynn Petukhova, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology and the Department of Population Health.

Ganna Bilousova, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Dermatology at the University of Colorado and mentor to Stefano Koutsoukos, a PhD candidate at the University of Colorado. Dr. Bilousova and Stefano received a 2025 PeDRA Research Fellowship Award for their project, Characterizing Deficits in Early-Stage Autophagy and Lipid Accumulation in iPSC-Derived Fibroblasts and Keratinocytes from Individuals with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. In this episode, they discuss findings from the study as presented at the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) Annual Meeting.

Tammy Esohe Ehimwenma Point Du Jour, Medical Student, Meharry Medical CollegeNeha Momin, Medical Student, University of HoustonRachel Zhang, Johns Hopkins UniversitySarah Commaroto, Research Fellow, University of South FloridaMadeline Guy, Medical Student, Northwest Ohio Medical University

Dr. Chiu joins the podcast to share an update on her ongoing study, Clinical and Genetic Characterization of Recurrent Reactive Infectious Mucocutaneous Eruption (RIME).

Michael Howell, PhD, is an immunologist and the Founder and President of Mountaineer Biosciences.

Dr. Joy Wan is a pediatric dermatologist and an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Dr. Beth Drolet is Professor and Chair, Geneva F. and Sture Johnson Distinguished Chair at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.

Dr. Megha Tollefson, Department Chair of Dermatology, Professor of Pediatrics and Dermatology at the Mayo Clinic, and PeDRA President-Elect, shares her key takeaways from the PeDRA session at SID.

Lawrence Eichenfield, MD reflects on the key takeaways from the International Eczema Council meeting at SID.

Dr. El-Feghaly joins the podcast to share her thoughts on the Epidermal Differentiation Disorders meeting as well as the first Gorlin Syndrome Alliance round table!

PeDRA President, Keith Choate, MD, PhD, shares his reflections on the Epidermal Differentiation Disorders Symposium!Learn more about Epidermal Differentiation Disorders.Join Jenn for an interview!

PeDRA's Executive Director, Mike Siegel, PhD, and Director of Educational Programs, Jenn Dawson, are attending the 83rd Annual Society for Investigative Dermatology Meeting in Chicago, IL! In this bonus episode, they highlight what attendees can look forward to and why the SID meeting continues to be such a valuable gathering for the dermatology research community. Stay tuned for ongoing coverage throughout the week, including poster interviews, key takeaways from PeDRA President Keith Choate, MD, PhD, and much more.Interested in sharing your thoughts about the meeting in a brief interview with Jenn Dawson? Jenn will be on-site through Friday afternoon — reach out here to connect!

In this episode, host Jenn Dawson speaks with Anne Davis, Pys.D., clinical psychologist, grief and trauma specialist, and mother of Hallie Grace Davis, who lived with junctional epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Anne shares Hallie's story and how her family created Heroes for Hallie Grace to support EB families through memorial and welcome bundles, practical assistance via the Wings of Care Initiative, community events like the Butterfly Ball, and research funding. This conversation offers a clear message for researchers and clinicians alike: center quality of life, listen to patients' and caregivers' experiences, and work together to accelerate progress.Please click here to learn more about Heroes for Hallie Grace.

PeDRA and the Society for Investigative Dermatology Meeting14th PeDRA Annual ConferenceRegister for the Epidermolysis Bullosa WebinarFunding OpportunitiesUpcoming Conferences

Skin reactions during pediatric cancer treatment can be painful, stigmatizing, and sometimes threaten a child's ability to stay on therapy. In this episode of PeDRA Pearls, Dr. Christina Boull and Dr. Rebecca Levy discuss PeDRA's Skin Tumors and Reactions to Cancer Therapies (STARC) Focused Study Group and its work to prevent, recognize, and manage these toxicities. They highlight multicenter efforts spanning photosensitivity prevention, survivorship outcomes, and targeted therapy side effects—including MEK inhibitor–associated mucocutaneous toxicities—plus the need for stronger derm–onc collaboration, better trial reporting, and evidence-based consensus guidelines.Click here for more information.

In her final episode as guest host, PeDRA Fellow, Hannah Chang, talks with Dr. Andrea Zaenglein and Dr. Jonette Keri about the 2023 PeDRA consensus recommendations on using combined oral contraceptives and spironolactone for acne in patients ages 9–15. They break down what the guidance says, what to watch for, and how to counsel patients and parents with confidence.Learn more about this 2023 PeDRA Consensus Project.

In this episode, we bring together two leaders in pediatric dermatology research to explore the work of PeDRA's Connective Tissue and Autoinflammatory Disorders Focused Study Group. Dr. Kalyani Marathe, who serves as the group's vice chair, and Dr. Maria Teresa Garcia-Romero, the group's chair, discuss the importance of collaboration across medical specialties and highlight ongoing studies shaping the future of care for children with autoimmune and autoinflammatory skin conditions. Together, they reflect on the impact of mentorship, patient-centered research, and the evolving landscape of pediatric dermatology.Click here to learn more!

In this special episode of PeDRA Pearls, host Jenn Dawson speaks with PeDRA Fellow Hannah Chang as she reflects on her two-year fellowship experience. Hannah shares highlights from recent conferences, key lessons from research and mentorship, and insights from her work in pediatric dermatology, education, and health equity. The conversation also looks ahead as Hannah celebrates her dermatology residency match and discusses what excites her most about the next stage of training. This episode offers a thoughtful reflection on growth, community, and the power of mentorship in pediatric dermatology.

Reid Oldenburg, MD, PhD, joins host Jenn Dawson to discuss his journey as a clinician-scientist and his leadership of PeDRA's Drugs and Bugs Focused Study Group. He shares how early global infectious-disease research shaped his path to dermatology, highlights ongoing projects—from genetic studies to patient-centered resources — and reflects on how collaboration and precision medicine are shaping the future of care.Drugs & Bugs Focused Study Group

Jenn Dawson and Caitlin Haskell discuss a host of upcoming PeDRA deadlines and opportunities. Here are links to all the items referenced in the episode.PeDRA funding opportunitiesPeDRA Fellow Application PeDRA Membership Renewal and SurveyNominations for the PeDRA awards programEducational catalogPeDRA events pagePeDRA at SID14th PeDRA Annual ConferencePeDRA Merch shop

Join PeDRA Fellow Hannah Chang for a roundtable discussion with special guests Dr. Jillian Rork and Dr. Deepti Gupta. Together, they discuss a recent publication titled “Impact of Persistent Alopecia on Quality of Life in Childhood Cancer and Transplant Survivors.” This article was published in Pediatric Blood & Cancer in 2025.

This episode breaks down the foundations of academic clinical research, from how studies are conceived and funded to how protocols ensure rigor, consistency, and patient safety. Listeners learn about the roles of sponsors, CROs, IRBs, and research teams, as well as the advantages and challenges of conducting trials in academic settings. This independent medical education program is supported by Incyte.Please click here for a complete list of disclosures.

Episode 2 explores how private‑practice and industry‑run clinical trials bring efficiency, flexibility, and broader patient access to the research landscape. Our guests discuss the financial and scientific motivations behind industry partnerships, the strengths and trade‑offs of private sites, and how these settings support large, fast‑moving studies. Rare‑disease trials, PK designs, and investigator‑initiated research are highlighted as key collaborative touchpoints.This independent medical education program is supported by Incyte.Please click here for a complete list of disclosures.

In this final episode, we examine how academia and industry work together to advance research and improve patient outcomes. The conversation highlights real‑world examples of shared data, translational science partnerships, diagnostic insights, and coordinated patient care. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of how combined expertise strengthens clinical trials and expands access to innovative therapies. This independent medical education program is supported by Incyte. Click here for a complete list of disclosures.

PeDRA Fellow Hannah Chang hosts a roundtable discussion with Dr. Jillian Rork and Dr. Deepti Gupta about a recent publication titled: Photo Protection in Skin of Color: A Scoping Review of Barriers, Behaviors, and Pediatric Considerations. This article was published in Pediatric Dermatology in September 2025.Tell us about you by taking this 1-question survey!

PeDRA Fellow Hannah Chang hosts a roundtable discussion with Dr. Jillian Rork and Dr. Deepti Gupta about a recent publication titled: Prevalence and Demographics of Psoriasis in the Down Syndrome Population: A Cross-Sectional Analysis Using the Epic Cosmos Dataset. This article was published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in September 2025.Tell us about you by taking this 1-question survey!

In this episode of PeDRA Pearls, we're joined by Meredith Weiss, Executive Director of the Gorlin Syndrome Alliance (GSA), to explore the intersection of patient advocacy, education, and research. Meredith shares her personal journey into rare disease advocacy and discusses how the GSA supports patients through community-building, clinician-led education, and a growing commitment to funding research–particularly in dermatology. Together, we highlight the critical role patient advocacy organizations play in improving quality of life and advancing meaningful, patient-centered research.Gorlin Syndrome Alliance RFATell us about yourself!

In this episode of PeDRA Pearls, PeDRA Fellow Hannah Chang speaks with Dr. Milie Fang, a pediatric dermatology fellow at Seattle Children's Hospital, about her journey into pediatric dermatology. Dr. Fang reflects on how her personal experience with eczema sparked her interest in the field, her evolving research focus, and the mentorship and community she's found through PeDRA. They also discuss navigating imposter syndrome, building a career in academic medicine, and her hopes for the future of pediatric dermatology.Tell us about you!

Irene Lara-Corrales, MD is an Associate Professor of Dermatology at the University of Toronto and a pediatric dermatologist at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, Canada. She knew early on that pediatric dermatology was her calling, and her dedication to advancing care for children with complex skin diseases deepened after caring for an infant with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) during her residency in Costa Rica. Most recently, Dr. Lara-Corrales has been a leading champion for hidradenitis suppurativa within PeDRA and across the broader pediatric dermatology research community. Watch or listen to learn more about her professional journey, research passions, and the personal interests that inspire her— including her love of books and tea.Please note - this interview originally aired in April 2023.

At the time of this interview in 2021, Dr. Carrie Coughlin was an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. She was also the Chair of the PeDRA Outcomes Committee, a member of the Meetings and Studies Committees, and led the Skin Tumors and Reactions to Cancer Therapies (STARC) Focused Study Group. Since then, she has become an Associate Professor of Dermatology and is serving as the Treasurer for PeDRA's Board of Directors. In this episode, Dr. Coughlin shares insights into her work, her leadership within PeDRA, and why effectively communicating pediatric dermatology research beyond the specialty is essential for advancing patient care and collaboration.Click here to listen to interviews with other PeDRA Board Members. Lastly, please fill out this anonymous 1-question survey.

Colleen Cotton, MD is a Pediatric Dermatologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Dermatology at Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC. Dr. Cotton joined PeDRA as a research fellow in 2013 and was one of the first PeDRA Fellows. She now serves on PeDRA's Early Investigator and Meetings Committees, as well as a participant in PeDRA's Mentorship Program as both a mentor and mentee. Be sure to watch to the end to learn more about Dr. Cotton's unique hidden talent.This episode originally aired in September 2022. Since then, Dr. Cotton has now taken over as Chair of the Early Investigator Committee and has joined PeDRA's Board of Directors.

This is part three—and the final installment—of our series on complementary and alternative medicine in pediatric dermatology. In this episode, we turn our focus to the future, examining key research gaps, promising areas for investigation, and opportunities for collaboration. Dr. Peter Leo and Dr. Larry Eichenfield share their perspectives on where integrative approaches may intersect with advancing science, and how curiosity, rigor, and innovation can help move the field forward.Special thanks to Incyte for supporting this independent medical education program.Tell us about yourself by filling out this 1-question survey.

This is part two of our conversation on complementary and alternative medicine in pediatric dermatology. While these approaches may offer benefits, they can also carry risks—especially when misinformation spreads quickly online. In this episode, Dr. Peter Leo and Dr. Larry Eichenfield explore how pediatric dermatologists can assess safety, address popular but unproven therapies, and support families in making informed decisions, all while maintaining strong, trusting clinical relationships.Special thanks to Incyte for supporting this independent education program.Tell us about yourself by filling out this 1-question survey.

In today's episode, we're diving into a topic that's increasingly shaping conversations in pediatric dermatology clinics: complementary and alternative therapies. Families are asking about everything from dietary changes to topical botanicals—and clinicians are navigating how to respond with empathy, evidence, and safety in mind. Joined by Dr. Peter Leo and Dr. Larry Eichenfield, we'll explore why interest in these therapies is growing, which approaches families are using most, and how pediatric dermatologists can engage in these conversations thoughtfully and effectively.Thank you to Incyte for supporting this independent medical education program.Tell us about yourself by filling out this 1-question survey.

In this special 2025 Year in Review episode of PeDRA Pearls, host Jenn Dawson is joined by PeDRA Executive Director Mike Siegel for a wide-ranging and reflective conversation on the year behind—and what lies ahead for pediatric dermatology research. Together, they explore how the PeDRA community navigated uncertainty in the broader research landscape while continuing to make meaningful progress across collaborative research, funding, education, events, and patient engagement.Tell us about yourself by filling out this ONE-question survey.Donate today.

In this episode, Dr. Pope shares her journey into pediatric dermatology, the surprising role mentorship played in shaping her academic career, and how her clinical passions grew into a rich and varied research portfolio spanning rare diseases, clinical trials, guidelines, and collaborative multicenter work. We also dive into her vision for PeDRA's future, the evolving landscape of research, and the tools she believes will empower the next generation of investigators.

Sherry Baluch brings a unique blend of clinical and technical experience to PeDRA. She attended medical school before earning a Master's in Computer Science and transitioning into healthcare technology. In a previous role as a Technical Project Manager, she led strategic modernization initiatives to improve lab operations and data systems. Sherry is passionate about supporting PeDRA's mission to advance collaborative research that improves the lives of children with skin disease.

In this episode, nurse practitioner Nichole Halliburton from Cincinnati Children's Hospital shares practical, real-world guidance on managing epidermolysis bullosa (EB). She breaks down EB subtypes, key stages of wound healing, and everyday challenges patients and caregivers face. Nichole offers actionable strategies for bathing, blister care, dressing changes, and the use of birch triterpenes in wound management. She also highlights the emotional and logistical burden of EB and the importance of support, education, and individualized care. This conversation is a helpful resource for clinicians, caregivers, and anyone involved in EB care. This podcast is being hosted by PeDRA and sponsored by Chiesi. PeDRA will evaluate content for suitability for its audience, but is not responsible for creating content, selecting speakers, or delivering presentations. Learn more about Nichole Halliburton, MSN, APRN-CNP

In this episode of PeDRA Pearls, we sit down with Dr. Marcia Hogeling, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Residency Program Director at UCLA. Dr. Hogeling shares her inspiring journey from pediatrics to pediatric dermatology, reflecting on the mentors who shaped her career and the importance of guiding the next generation of clinicians and researchers. She also discusses her diverse research interests—from vascular birthmarks to inflammatory skin diseases—and offers an inside look at her new role as Chair of PeDRA's Outcomes Committee. Tune in to learn how Dr. Hogeling and her colleagues are measuring impact, fostering collaboration, and advancing the field of pediatric dermatology—all while keeping a love for mentorship, research, and even skiing at the heart of her work.Update your profile and renew your membership today!

In this third and final episode, we're diving deep into how emerging insights about the microbiome are shaping the way clinicians counsel families and care for pediatric patients. Dr. Shoch and Dr. Castelo-Soccio share how understanding the microbiome has changed their clinical practice, from their approach to bathing routines and yeast overgrowth to dietary counseling and the cautious use of probiotics and bleach baths. Together, they explore what we know and what we don't, and where the future of microbiome research in pediatric dermatology might be headed.

In this second episode, we discuss how infant microbiomes develop and what factors shape them, and how early life disruptions may increase the risk of disease. The conversation also touches on the hygiene and biodiversity hypothesis, the role of dysbiosis in conditions like atopic dermatitis, and the ongoing challenge of teasing apart whether microbiome shifts are causes or markers of disease.Special thanks to Incyte for supporting this independent medical education program.

The gut and skin microbiomes are an area that is rapidly evolving and holds promise for reshaping our understanding of, prevention, and treatment of pediatric skin disease. This friendly discussion, spanning three episodes, will explore emerging research, theories on microbiome–immune interactions, and what pediatric dermatologists should know about the skin–gut connection.Special thanks to Incyte for supporting this independent medical education program.

We're reaching all the way back into our 2020 archives to bring you a Getting to Know You with Dr. Heather Brandling-Bennett. Listen as she shares her journey into pediatric dermatology, the “aha” moments that shaped her career, and how collaboration through PeDRA continues to drive innovation in research. She offers inspiring advice for early investigators about finding passion, embracing balance, and building community in science.Please note - Dr. Brandling Bennett is now a Professor of Dermatology at the University of Washington and Fellowship Director at Seattle Children's Hospital. This interview originally aired in 2021.Learn more about Dr. Brandling Bennett.

Hosted in partnership with Chiesi, Dr. Joyce Teng and Dr. Emily Gorell share their real-world clinical experiences, highlighting how birch triterpenes may work to accelerate wound healing, reduce inflammation, and potentially improve quality of life for patients living with dystrophic and junctional epidermolysis bullosa (EB). The program also touches on the importance of wound preparation, combinatorial approaches to therapy, and holistic care approaches for these patients.This is an audio version of a webinar that includes slides. To view the slides referenced in this program, please click here.A complete list of guests' disclosures can also be found here.This webinar is being hosted by PeDRA and sponsored by Chiesi. PeDRA will evaluate content for suitability for its audience, but is not responsible for the creation of content, selection of speakers, or delivery of presentations. For a complete list of presenter disclosures, please click on the presenters' photographs.

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The PeDRA Annual Conference is just days away, and excitement is building! In this special episode of PeDRA Pearls, host Jenn Dawson sits down with Executive Director Mike Siegel, PhD to talk about what attendees can expect in Minneapolis. From this year's theme of building consensus to advance pediatric dermatology research to highlights like Focused Study Groups, the NextGen Research Forum, the Early Investigator Reception, Camp Wonder, and the Dash for Discovery, Mike shares what makes this gathering so unique. Whether you're joining us in person or tuning in from afar, get a behind-the-scenes look at the people, partnerships, and energy that make the PeDRA Conference a one-of-a-kind event.Download the Conference AppRegister for Dash for Discovery

In this episode of PeDRA Pearls, host Hannah Chang sits down with Dr. Lisa Arkin, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Director of Pediatric Dermatology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. They discuss the unique opportunities offered through UW's pediatric dermatology fellowship, the importance of customizable training experiences, and the evolving research landscape in areas such as autoinflammatory disease and vascular anomalies. Dr. Arkin also reflects on lessons learned through challenges in research, the value of mentorship, and advice for trainees and early investigators entering the field.PeDRA Annual ConferenceDash for Discovery

In this episode, we explore the intersection of storytelling and science. Join us as we dive into Eva's Itchy Adventure, a children's book created to help kids living with eczema better understand and manage their condition. We'll discuss the concept of bibliotherapy—using books as a therapeutic tool—and how it can improve outcomes by reducing anxiety, empowering patients, and strengthening connections between families and healthcare providers.Books referenced in this episode:Ezra'sItchy Red SkinAli'sHair LossSoaringHigh: A Children's Book about PsoriasisYour Skin is ShowingUpdates:PeDRA Annual ConferenceDash for DiscoveryEmerging Investigator Research Grants Program Career Bridge Research Grant Consensus Grant ProgramPediatric Ichthyosis Challenge Grant SOCS Scientific Symposium

In episode 21, PeDRA Pub Club host Hannah Chang and guest panelists, Dawn Eichenfield, MD, PhD, and Jinia El-Feghaly, MD, discuss the article "An international multicenter, retrospective cohort study of 203 patients with pediatric androgenetic alopecia“ published in Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2025.Updates:PeDRA Annual ConferenceDash for DiscoveryPeDRA Grant Deadlines