Dermatopathology is a board-certified subspecialty of pathology and dermatology which focuses on the study of skin diseases at the microscopic level. Dermatopathology involves the microscopic examination and interpretation of biopsy specimens obtained from the skin. At Pariser Dermatology Specialists, LTD., this is carried out by one of our dermatopathologists (a doctor trained specifically in dermatopathology): Dr. Ashley Reed and Dr. Molly Smith. Both Dr. Reed and Dr. Smith are board-certifed in both dermatology and dermatopathology.
Pariser Dermatology Specialists, LTD. has a specialized dermatopathology lab located in our Norfolk office. Once a sample of a patient’s skin is received in our lab, it is fixed in formaldehyde, embedded in wax, and cut into thin slices to be placed on a glass slide. Special dyes are then used to stain the specimen. The specimen is then examined under a microscope by either Dr. Reed or Dr. Smith. Depending on what they observe, additional special stains may be required to identify what is causing the skin condition.
Utilizing the services of a dermatopathologist is an integral part of the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders and cancers. Having our own dermatopathology lab, staffed by our own board-certified dermatopathologists, allows for better communication and collaboration between dermatopathology and your dermatologist and sets Pariser Dermatology Specialists, LTD. apart from other practices.
