DERMATOPATHOLOGY

Diagnosis of Biopsies in the Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and Newtown Square Areas

Dermatopathology is the study and interpretation of skin biopsies.

Dermatologists often seek microscopic confirmation of a patient's skin condition from dermatopathologists who integrate the patient's clinical history with microscopic observations of the biopsy to render a final interpretation. For many conditions, dermatopathology is the only route toward accurate diagnosis. The accurate microscopic interpretation of the biopsy is important in the selection of appropriate therapies.

Dermatopathologists are physicians who, after completing initial training in dermatology or pathology, receive additional training in accredited programs for the interpretation of skin biopsies. The subspecialty of dermatopathology is a combination of both dermatology (the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders) and pathology (examination of the microscopic features of disorders of the skin).

Diagnosing your skin tissue is not an automated laboratory test. Dermatopathologists provide a personal, consultative service to your dermatologist, which includes analyzing your medical information in conjunction with microscopic observations. The ultimate goal is to provide the best possible patient care for you. Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer places a premium on accurate and timely diagnosis for our patients, and thus, we feel it is important to have a dermatopathologist on staff.

John K. Mullholland, M.D. is the dermatopathologist at Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute. He is double board certified from the American Board of Dermatology in both Dermatology and Dermatopathology.