Penn Dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia was the nation’s first dermatology department. Founded by Dr. Louis Duhring in 1874, Penn Dermatology combines the renowned expertise of its clinicians, researchers, and educators to provide comprehensive and high quality care to all patients, regardless of the skin disorder or disease.

Dermatology Care at Penn

Penn’s dermatologists, dermatologic surgeons, dermatopathologists and subspecialists offer patient-centered care using the most advanced dermatologic treatment options and therapies available in the world.

Penn’s dermatologic clinicians are at the forefront of medicine, teaching the next generation of leaders. They also participate in research and clinical trials to develop promising and cutting-edge treatment options for tomorrow.

  • Penn Dermatology provides comprehensive treatment for a high volume of patients from the Philadelphia region and to patients referred to Penn dermatologists from across the United States.
  • Penn Dermatology offers sophisticated diagnostic testing, surgical treatment options, including Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgery, drug and specialized therapies, preventive and consultative services and cosmetic and skin enhancement services, found at few other medical centers in the United States. Penn dermatologists personalize treatment plans to match the needs of every patient.
  • As a high-volume dermatology center, Penn dermatologists routinely diagnose, treat and perform surgical procedures that may not be done frequently at other medical facilities. Studies have shown that medical centers that perform higher volumes of procedures have better patient outcomes.

Comprehensive Dermatology Education at Penn

  • The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania ranks second among research-oriented medical schools in the United States according to U.S. News & World Report’s annual survey.
  • High volume clinical services provide medical students, residents and fellows with opportunities to gain expertise in both common and uncommon skin disorders, including skin cancer, psoriasis, and hair and nail disorders.
  • Penn attracts residents and fellows with strong academic and leadership skills, giving trainees the opportunity to learn alongside some of the most talented and accomplished physicians, residents and fellows in the world.
  • Graduates of Penn’s residency and fellowship programs are highly recruited for leadership positions in academic medicine.
  • Penn’s dermatologists hold some of the highest credentials in dermatologic care. They include some of the world’s finest and most-respected dermatologists, as well as leaders in dermatologic surgery, dermatopathology and dermatologic research.

Dermatology Research and Technology at Penn

  • Penn Dermatology is one of the few institutions in the country with dedicated dermatologic research laboratories and dermatopathology facilities providing comprehensive diagnostic testing to Penn and community-based physicians throughout the Philadelphia region and across the country.
  • As a national leader in basic science, translational research and clinical trials, Penn Dermatology offers patients access to the latest treatment options before they are widely available elsewhere in the region.
  • Penn Dermatology’s research programs are funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and are at the forefront of innovation.
  • In recent years, the Dermatology Online Journal has ranked Penn Dermatology first in the United States. As one of the most stimulating academic environments in the world, new researchers can expect to collaborate and learn from the best minds in dermatologic medicine in an interactive, highly networked and supportive working environment.
  • Penn researchers have the opportunity to solve significant problems in their respective areas of research. Many of the methods used around the world for diagnosing and treating skin disorders, skin diseases and hair and nail problems were developed by Penn researchers.