What is Dermatopathology?
Specialized pathology of the skin.
A Dermatopathologist is a highly trained physician who specializes in diagnosing diseases of the skin under a microscope. The subspecialty of dermatopathology is a combination of both dermatology (the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair and nail diseases) and pathology (identification of diseases microscopically).
Specialized Training
To become a Dermatopathologist, a physician must first be board-certified in either dermatology or pathology. The physician is then required to undergo one to two years of additional training in an accredited Dermatopathology Fellowship Program. During this fellowship, the physician in training strengthens their dermatology and dermatopathology skills under the guidance of one or more prominent Dermatopathologists. Upon completion of the fellowship, the physician then takes a comprehensive dermatopathology board exam.
Did you know?
Dr. Matherne is the only local Dermatologist that is double board-certified in Dermatology and Dermatopathology. Having the additional specialty of Dermatopathology as an area of expertise, he is able to see a skin lesion, biopsy it and examine it under a microscope. Something that gives him an advantage in diagnosing skin conditions.