Dr. Michael Piepkorn

Clinical Professor of Dermatology

Dr. Michael Piepkorn is a highly regarded clinical dermatologist, dermatopathologist, and researcher with over fifty years of experience in the medical field. He has made remarkable contributions to dermatology throughout his career, especially in the areas of melanoma skin cancer and psoriasis. His expertise in dermatopathology, a subspecialty that combines dermatology and pathology, has placed him at the forefront of medical advancements in his field.

He is currently practicing diagnosing diseases from skin biopsies at Dermatopathology Northwest in Seattle, Washington. In addition to his clinical work, he is part of the pigmented lesion and melanoma clinic at the University of Washington’s Roosevelt outpatient facility. His work in both settings allows him to stay involved in cutting-edge research and clinical practices for melanoma diagnosis and treatment.

Extensive Expertise and Academic Background

Piepkorn holds board certifications in pathology, dermatology, and dermatopathology. Over the years, he has held academic positions at the University of Utah and the University of Washington, contributing significantly to dermatology research and medical education. In 2000, he co-founded a skin pathology lab in Bellevue, Washington, to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases. His commitment to advancing dermatopathology and dermatology has been a driving force in his career.

One of the most significant achievements was being part of a team identifying the p16 or CDKN2A gene, which plays a critical role in familial melanoma. This discovery revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma, leading to improved clinical outcomes. In 2004, the American Society of Dermatopathology honored Michael Piepkorn, MD, with an award for his contributions.

Research Contributions

Published Work

He has published more than 170 original journal articles related to medicine. A sample of Michael Piepkorn's PHD 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

Throughout his career, he has been an influential mentor to generations of dermatologists and dermatopathologists. His dedication to training future physician-scientists has played a significant role in advancing melanoma research and dermatopathology. His mentorship has shaped the careers of many medical professionals, ensuring that his legacy lives on through his students.

As a teacher and mentor, He has fostered the growth of the next generation of dermatologists, helping them navigate clinical practice and research. His educational contributions have had a lasting impact on dermatology and continue to inspire aspiring professionals.

Academic Journey

Michael Piepkorn PHD earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 1973 and completed his PhD at the University of Washington in 1980. He undertook his residency in pathology and dermatology at the University of Washington, where he held a joint faculty appointment in both the Department of Dermatology and the Department of Pathology during the 1990s. His academic training laid the foundation for his exceptional career in dermatology and dermatopathology.

He received his undergraduate education at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, further shaping his path to becoming a leading expert in the medical field. This robust academic background reflects his lifelong dedication to learning and expanding his expertise.

Recognition and Legacy

His work has earned him multiple accolades and recognition in the dermatology community. He has received several teaching awards, including the Clinical Faculty Distinguished Teaching Award from the University of Washington’s Residency Program in 2009 and 2018. These prestigious awards recognize his outstanding contributions as both a clinician and educator.

In 2011, the University of Washington established the Michael Piepkorn Endowed Chair in Dermatology Research in his honor. This endowment supports ongoing research in dermatology and ensures that Michael's impact on the field will continue for years to come.

Interests

Outside of his professional achievements, He is passionate about the outdoors. He enjoys landscaping and gardening, which allow him to engage with nature in a creative and fulfilling way. Additionally, He is an avid mountaineer and has climbed hundreds of mountains across the United States and internationally. He enjoys backpacking, nature photography, and other outdoor activities that allow him to explore the natural world.

These interests reflect Piepkorn’s deep connection to nature and desire to maintain a balanced lifestyle. His love for the outdoors complements his professional achievements and gives him a sense of well-being and fulfillment.

Publications:

Barnhill's Dermatopathology, Fourth Edition

Some of my written contributions

Into the Pajamazon by Michael Piepkorn Paperback BookInto

Pathology of Melanocytic Nevi and Malignant Melanoma

Pathology of Melanocytic Nevi and Melanoma - 3rd Edition

Michael Piepkorn on How Melanoma Gene Research Continues to Influence Clinical Practice

Improving Melanoma Detection Through Specialized Dermatopathology Training, by Dr. Michael Piepkorn

Dr. Michael Piepkorn on How the Discovery of the p16 Gene Transformed Familial Melanoma Diagnosis