Description
Diagnose and characterize skin diseases by analyzing biopsies and other cutaneous specimens using histology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and molecular assays; communicate findings to clinicians and manage dermatopathology laboratory services.
- • Review dermatology cases by correlating clinical data, images, and prior reports with histopathology of skin specimens.
- • Examine microscopic sections of skin, hair, and nails to identify neoplasms, infections, and inflammatory dermatoses.
- • Write clear, timely dermatopathology reports, including synoptic elements, staging, margins, and ancillary study results.
- • Interpret immunohistochemistry and special stains (e.g., PAS, GMS, AFB) to aid diagnosis of cutaneous disease.
- • Perform and interpret direct immunofluorescence for autoimmune and blistering disorders.
- • Order and interpret molecular assays (e.g., BRAF/NRAS, TCR/IGH rearrangements, FISH, PCR) for melanocytic lesions and cutaneous lymphoproliferative diseases.
- • Analyze and report Breslow thickness, ulceration, mitotic rate, and margin status for melanomas and other skin cancers.
- • Classify inflammatory dermatoses using pattern analysis and clinicopathologic correlation.
- • Consult with dermatologists and surgeons on test selection, biopsy technique, and management implications.
- • Communicate urgent or unexpected results promptly to referring clinicians.
- • Manage and ensure quality of dermatopathology laboratories, including validation, QA/QC, and regulatory compliance (e.g., CLIA, CAP).
- • Plan and supervise the work of pathology assistants, technologists, trainees, and rotating residents.
- • Develop, validate, or adopt new stains, image analysis, or digital pathology tools to improve diagnosis.
- • Participate in multidisciplinary conferences and tumor boards to discuss complex cutaneous cases.
- • Conduct research in dermatopathology and present or publish scientific findings.
- • Educate dermatology and pathology residents, fellows, and laboratory staff.
- • Testify as an expert witness in medicolegal cases involving cutaneous pathology.
- • Provide intraoperative consultation and interpret frozen sections for margin assessment when appropriate.
- • Advise on specimen handling, orientation, and grossing of skin excisions and re-excisions.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
