Biography: Dr. Michael Piepkorn
Dr. Michael Piepkorn is a respected clinical dermatologist, dermatopathologist, and researcher who has dedicated over five decades to the medical field. Throughout his career, Dr. Piepkorn has held academic positions and contributed significantly to medical research, focusing on melanoma skin cancer and psoriasis. His expertise in dermatopathology, a subspecialty of dermatology and pathology, has earned him recognition as a leading figure in his field.
Michael Piepkorn currently practices at Dermatopathology Northwest in Seattle, Washington, where he diagnoses diseases through skin biopsies. He also works at the University of Washington’s Roosevelt outpatient facility in the pigmented lesion and melanoma clinic. These roles allow him to remain at the forefront of skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Michael Piepkorn’s Medical Expertise
Michael Piepkorn, MD, holds board certifications in pathology, dermatology, and dermatopathology. His academic career includes appointments at the University of Utah and the University of Washington, where he contributed significantly to advancing dermatology. In 2000, he co-founded a skin pathology lab in Bellevue, Washington, which focused on skin disease diagnostics and treatment. Piepkorn's career has been marked by his commitment to improving medical practices and advancing research in dermatopathology.
A significant achievement in Dr. Piepkorn’s career was his involvement in identifying the p16 or CDKN2A gene, a major familial melanoma gene. This groundbreaking discovery has had a profound impact on the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma. 2004 the American Society of Dermatopathology honored Dr. Piepkorn for his work.
Dr. Michael Piepkorn’s Research and Published Work
Published Work
He has published more than 170 original journal articles related to medicine. A sample of Dr. Piepkorn’s prolific work includes the following:
● “Pathologists' Diagnosis of Invasive Melanoma and Melanocytic Proliferations: Observer Accuracy and Reproducibility Study”
● “Assessment of Second-Opinion Strategies for Diagnoses of Cutaneous Melanocytic Lesions”
● “Concordance and Reproducibility of Melanoma Staging According to the 7th vs 8th Edition of the AJCC Cancer Staging Manual”
● “Malpractice Concerns, Defensive Medicine, and the Histopathology Diagnosis of Melanocytic Skin Lesions”
● “Characteristics and Diagnostic Performance of Pathologists Who Enjoy Interpreting Melanocytic Lesions”
● “Population-Based Analysis of Histologically Confirmed Melanocytic Proliferations Using Natural Language Processing”
● “Pathologist Characteristics Associated with Accuracy and Reproducibility of Melanocytic Skin Lesion Interpretation”
● “Skin Cancer Screening: Recommendations for Data-driven Screening Guidelines and a Review of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Controversy”
● “Pathologists' Use of Second Opinions in Interpretation of Melanocytic Cutaneous”
● “Pathologist Characteristics Associated With Rendering Higher-Grade Diagnoses for Melanocytic Lesions”
● “Accuracy of Digital Pathologic Analysis vs Traditional Microscopy in the Interpretation of Melanocytic Lesions.”
● “Revision of the Melanocytic Pathology Assessment Tool and Hierarchy for Diagnosis Classification Schema for Melanocytic Lesions: A Consensus Statement”
● “MPATH-Dx Version 2.0 Schema for Melanocytic Lesions: A Robust Tool for Standardized Diagnostic Reporting”
● “Shifts in Cutaneous Melanocytic Tumor Diagnostic Terminology: Melanocytoma, MPATH-Dx V2.0 and the WHO Skin5”
Dr. Michael Piepkorn’s Role in Mentorship and Education
Michael Piepkorn, PHD, is also known for mentoring the next generation of dermatologists and dermatopathologists. He has trained many clinical dermatologists, sharing his knowledge of medical practice and research. His mentorship has played a crucial role in developing future physician-scientists and continues to advance melanoma research. Piepkorn's e orts in education ensure that his legacy in the field will live on through his students and colleagues.
Piepkorn has also shaped medical education, ensuring his expertise is passed on to future generations. His contributions to training physician-scientists have significantly impacted the direction of ongoing melanoma research.
Dr. Michael Piepkorn’s Education and Training
He earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 1973 and a PhD from the University of Washington in 1980. He completed his residency in pathology and dermatology at the University of Washington, where he also held a joint faculty appointment in the Department of Dermatology and Pathology during the 1990s. This extensive academic background laid the foundation for his distinguished career in dermatology and dermatopathology.
In addition to his professional training, Dr. Piepkorn completed his undergraduate studies at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, which helped him prepare for a successful career in medicine. These educational milestones reflect his lifelong commitment to learning and advancing the field of dermatology.
Dr. Michael Piepkorn’s Recognitions and Legacy
Michael Piepkorn’s contributions to dermatology have earned him numerous accolades. In 2009 and 2018, he received the Clinical Faculty Distinguished Teaching Award from the University of Washington’s Residency Program. These awards recognize his excellence in teaching and dedication to educating future dermatologists.
In honor of his accomplishments, the Michael Piepkorn Endowed Chair in Dermatology Research was established at the University of Washington in 2011. This endowment supports ongoing dermatology research and ensures that Dr. Piepkorn’s impact on the field will continue to benefit future generations of researchers and clinicians.
Dr. Michael Piepkorn’s Personal Life and Hobbies
Outside of his professional achievements, Dr. Michael Piepkorn enjoys spending time in nature. He is passionate about landscaping and gardening and enjoys outdoor activities such as backpacking, mountaineering, and nature photography. His love for climbing has taken him to hundreds of mountains across the United States and abroad. These activities reflect his deep respect for the natural world and his desire to stay active and engaged beyond his professional work.
Piepkorn's interests highlight his connection to nature and his balanced approach to life. He stays active while contributing significantly to the field of dermatology and dermatopathology.
Portfolio: https://drmichaelpiepkorn.com
Portfolio 2: https://michaelpiepkornphd.com
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