PeDRA Pearls

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 Lio 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 Lio 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 Lio 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.

November is Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month, and we’re revisiting an episode from our archives. Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation about the burden and stigma surrounding pediatric hyperhidrosis. Executive Director and Founding Member Lisa Pieretti eloquently discusses the gaps in pediatric hyperhidrosis research and emphasizes the importance of education and awareness. In the second interview, hear from an entire family as they share how they cope with hyperhidrosis and their hopes for future research. Learn more at www.sweathelp.org.

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 SymposiumPC Research GrantsSHSA 2025  MRF Brain Metastases Summit 4.0  2025 HS Academy 

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

In episode twenty, PeDRA Pub Club host Hannah Chang and guest panelists, Dawn Eichenfield, MD, PhD, and Jinia El-Feghaly, MD discuss the article The Association of Psoriasis and Bacterial Infections in Pediatric Patients: A Retrospective Review, published in Pediatric Dermatology in 2025.PeDRA Annual Conference

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In episode nineteen, PeDRA Pub Club host Hannah Chang and guest panelists, Dawn Eichenfield, MD, PhD, and Jinia El-Feghaly, MD discuss the article Survey Access to and Use of Narrowband UVB Phototherapy in Pediatric Vitiligo, published in Pediatric Dermatology in 2025.PeDRA Annual ConferenceDash for Discovery

In this heartwarming episode of PeDRA Pearls, we take a break from our usual research-focused content to spotlight the power of community, creativity, and confidence-building for children with skin conditions. Host Jenn Dawson is joined by Dr. Alanna Bree, founder of Made a Masterpiece, and medical student Alisha Kashyap to discuss their co-authored children’s book Loving the Skin You’re In at Camp Dermadillo. Tune in to learn about the inspiration behind the book, the transformative experience of dermatology camps like Camp Dermadillo and Camp Discovery, and the growing impact of Made a Masterpiece on families across the country.

In our final episode focused on the OX40 pathway and its emerging therapies, Dr. Joy Wan moderates a thoughtful discussion with two leaders from the patient advocacy community. Wendy Smith Begolka, MBS, Chief Program and Mission Officer at the National Eczema Association, and Korey Capozza, MPH, Founder and Executive Director of Global Parents for Eczema Research, share their perspectives on incorporating patient priorities into clinical trials and effectively communicating with patients about new and emerging treatments.Disclosures:Joy Wan, MD - Sun Pharmaceuticals – consulting (DMC), Astria Therapeutics – consulting (ad board), Galderma – fellowship funding (paid to Johns Hopkins)Wendy Smith-Begolka, MBS - Amgen/Kyowa, Kirin, Pfizer, Sanofi  – advisory board honoraria; Arcutis, Incyte, Galderma – speaker fees; Pfizer, Sanofi – research grantsKorey Capozza, MPH - Advisory board honoraria from Amgen, Kyowa Kirin, Incyte, and Pfizer

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In episode eighteen, PeDRA Pub Club host Hannah Chang and guest panelists, Bella Plumptre, MBBS, and Cheryl Bayart, MD, discuss the article How issues of autonomy and consent differ between children and adults: Kids are not just little people, published in Clinical Dermatology in 2017.PeDRA and the greater pediatric dermatology community are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Dr. Robert Sidbury. To donate in his honor, please visit the SPD Foundation.

Welcome to today’s episode of the PeDRA Pearls Podcast! In this installment, Dr. Colleen Cotton is joined by medical student Mana Nasseri to discuss their research project titled "Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Pediatric Hidradenitis Suppurativa." Tune in as they share what inspired this important work, key insights from their findings, and the questions that still remain. Whether you're a clinician, researcher, or simply curious about the intersection of dermatology and pediatric obesity, this episode is full of valuable perspectives you won’t want to miss.Updates:Dash for DiscoveryPeDRA Annual ConferencePeDRA Awards ProgramPeDRA Mentorship Program - Now Open!

In episode seventeen, PeDRA Pub Club host Hannah Chang and guest panelists, Bella Plumptre, MD, and Cheryl Bayart, MD, discuss a recent PeDRA publication, Dermatologic Conditions in Down Syndrome: A Multi-Site Retrospective Review of International Classification of Diseases published in Pediatric Dermatology in 2024. PeDRA Awards ProgramPeDRA Annual Conference

Following the June 23 OX40 webinar, Dr. Eichenfield, Dr. Simpson, and Dr. Wan continue the conversation with a look ahead at the future of OX40 therapies and their potential to change the course of disease. They also unpack the complex concept of remission in atopic dermatitis—what it means, how it's defined, and whether it's truly achievable.To watch the OX40 webinar, please click here.Disclosures:Lawrence Eichenfield, MD has served as a consultant, speaker, advisory board member, or investigator for AbbVie, Acrotech, Almirall, Amgen, Apogee, Arcutis, Attovia, Bristol Myers Squibb, Castle Biosciences, CorEvitas, Dermavant, Eli Lilly, Forte, Galderma, Incyte Corporation, Janssen, Johnson & Johnson, LEO Pharma, Novartis, Ortho Dermatologics, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi Genzyme, Target RWE, T-Rex, and UCB.Eric Simpson, MD reports personal fees from AbbVie, Aclaris Therapeutics, Amgen, Arcutis, Astria Therapeutics, Attovia Therapeutics, Inc., Bambusa Therapeutics Inc., Castle, CorEvitas, Dermira, Eli Lilly, Evomunne, FIDE, Impetus Healthcare, Incyte, Innovaderm Reche/ Indero, Inmagene Biopharmaceuticals, Janssen, LectureLinx (LLX), Leo, NUMAB Therapeutics AG, Pfizer, Recludix Pharma, Regeneron, Roche Products Ltd, Sanofi-Genzyme, SITRYX TherapeuticsEric Simpson, MD reports grants (or serves as Principal investigator role) for AbbVie, Acrotech, Amgen, Arcutis, ASLAN, Castle, Dermavant, CorEvitas, Dermira, Eli Lilly, Incyte, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi-Genzyme, Target, VeriSkinJoy Wan, MD Sun Pharmaceuticals - consulting (DMC), Astria Therapeutics - consulting (ad board), Galderma - fellowship funding (paid to Johns Hopkins)

This engaging and informative webinar explores the role of OX40 and OX40L in pediatric dermatology. OX40: Innovative Insights and Therapeutic Potential in Pediatric Dermatology brings together experts in the field to discuss emerging research, mechanisms of action, and the implications of targeting the OX40 pathway for treating chronic inflammatory skin diseases in children. To view the video version of this webinar, please click here. Disclosures:Lawrence Eichenfield, MD has served as a consultant, speaker, advisory board member, or investigator for AbbVie, Acrotech, Almirall, Amgen, Apogee, Arcutis, Attovia, Bristol Myers Squibb, Castle Biosciences, CorEvitas, Dermavant, Eli Lilly, Forte, Galderma, Incyte Corporation, Janssen, Johnson & Johnson, LEO Pharma, Novartis, Ortho Dermatologics, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi Genzyme, Target RWE, T-Rex, and UCB.Eric Simpson, MD reports personal fees from AbbVie, Aclaris Therapeutics, Amgen, Arcutis, Astria Therapeutics, Attovia Therapeutics, Inc., Bambusa Therapeutics Inc., Castle, CorEvitas, Dermira, Eli Lilly, Evomunne, FIDE, Impetus Healthcare, Incyte, Innovaderm Reche/ Indero, Inmagene Biopharmaceuticals, Janssen, LectureLinx (LLX), Leo, NUMAB Therapeutics AG, Pfizer, Recludix Pharma, Regeneron, Roche Products Ltd, Sanofi-Genzyme, SITRYX TherapeuticsEric Simpson, MD reports grants (or serves as Principal investigator role) for AbbVie, Acrotech, Amgen, Arcutis, ASLAN, Castle, Dermavant, CorEvitas, Dermira, Eli Lilly, Incyte, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi-Genzyme, Target, VeriSkinJoy Wan, MD Sun Pharmaceuticals - consulting (DMC), Astria Therapeutics - consulting (ad board), Galderma - fellowship funding (paid to Johns Hopkins)

In this episode of PeDRA Pearls, we host a powerful conversation featuring the Gorlin Syndrome Alliance (GSA). Join us as we delve into the world of Gorlin Syndrome through the heartfelt narrative of Taylor Hodge, who recounts her family's journey following her son's diagnosis at just 18 months old. Joined by Dr. Elena Hawryluk of Harvard Medical School, the discussion sheds light on current research gaps and future directions in the field. Meredith Weiss, Executive Director of the GSA, also contributes, highlighting the essential patient support programs offered by the GSA and the organization's unwavering commitment to research and collaboration. This episode offers a blend of personal insight and professional expertise, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Gorlin Syndrome and the ongoing collaborative efforts to support those affected.

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In episode sixteen, Hannah Chang is joined by Dr. Bella Plumptre and Dr. Cheryl Bayart to discuss the article Interobserver and Intraobserver Agreement on the Treatment of Infantile Hemangiomas published in JAMA Dermatology in 2025.OX40 Webinar Studio Audience NextGen Research Forum Information

Join PeDRA Executive Director Mike Siegel, PhD, and Pediatric Dermatologist Dr. Carrie Coughlin, Chair of PeDRA’s Outcomes Committee, as they wrap up our coverage of the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) meeting. In this final recap, they highlight key moments from the PeDRA session and discuss why SID is a vital event for anyone involved in pediatric dermatology research. Tune in for insights, takeaways, and a look ahead!

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Human genetics researcher Lynn Petukhova shares her thoughts on SID, and what's getting her excited about hidradenitis suppurativa genetics research.

Additional coverage of the 2025 Society for Investigative Dermatology meeting with Dr. Joy Wan.

Special thanks to our Pathways to Progress supporters!PeDRA Annual Conference Registration is open!SID Coverage bonus episode with Joy Wan, MD

Tune in for interviews with Keith Choate, MD, PhD of Yale University, Joyce Teng, MD, PhD of Stanford University, Emily Gorell, DO of the University of Colorado, and Cristy Garza Mayers, MD, PhD of the University of Washington. Watch the podcast feed for bonus episodes in June!

Tune in for poster presentations from Rebecca Urbonas of Florida Atlantic University, Ryland Mortlock of Yale University, and Alexa Deregnaucourt of the University of Cincinnati.

Tune in for interviews with Michael Howell, PhD, Founder of Moutaineer Biosciences, and a member of the SID Committee for Scientific Programs. The second interview is a wonderful discussion with HS Foundation Brent Hazelett, CEO, and Director of Education Lauren Klinedinst.Learn more about the HS Foundation. PeDRA/HS Foundation Challenge Grant.

Welcome to Day One coverage of the Society for Investigative Dermatology Meeting! This interview includes a welcome from our executive director, Mike Siegel, an early poster review from graduate student Amanda Orosco, and an overview of the International Eczema Council meeting with Dr. Lawrence Eichenfield. Stay tuned for more exciting coverage! If you'd like to join us for an interview, please stop by the PeDRA booth or email Jenn Dawson!

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PeDRA is thrilled to announce that Eunice Bolay is stepping into a new Membership and Operations Coordinator role! In this new role, Eunice will manage our member database, support day-to-day operations, and serve as a key resource for current and prospective members. Please join us in congratulating Eunice on her new role and listen to learn about her background and aspirations for the future!

In episode fifteen, PeDRA Pub Club host Hannah Chang and guest panelists Kalyani Marathe, MD, Cristy Garza-Mayers, MD, PhD, and Allison Miller, MD, discuss a recent PeDRA publication, Comparison of the Skindex-Teen and the Skindex-29 Quality of Life Survey Instruments in a Predominantly American Indian Adolescent Population, published in Pediatric Dermatology in 2024. Whether you’re a longtime pediatric dermatologist, currently in training, or a patient or advocate who wants to learn more about the latest research in pediatric dermatology, this podcast is for you. Through a structured roundtable discussion, listeners will gain valuable insight into publications relating to pediatric dermatology and understand what this research means for both patients and providers.

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The 2025 Spring Mentorship Mingle offers valuable insights into preparing for a dermatology residency application. PeDRA mentors discuss key strategies for crafting a standout application, with a focus on the essential role of research in setting yourself apart from other candidates.