Day 2 Recap: 50th Annual SPD Dermatology Conference 2025

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Day 2 of the 2025 Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD) Annual Meeting offered a rich blend of celebration, education, and reflection, as attendees honored trailblazers in the field while examining evolving clinical, research, and practice-based themes.

The sessions opened with the presentation of the AAP Alvin Jacobs Award, recognizing Lawrence Schachner, MD, for his distinguished contributions to pediatric dermatology. Teresa Wright, MD, presented the award, highlighting Schachner’s legacy in both patient care and mentorship. This was followed by brief announcements and another round of Hot Topics & Trends in Pediatric Dermatology from Luke Johnson, MD.

Lawrence Schachner, MD, Reflects on Career, Mentorship, and Innovation

Next, Ginna Sybert, MD, was inducted into the SPD Hall of Fame, presented by Melinda Jen, MD. Sybert was honored for her impact on the field through clinical genetics and mentorship.

The morning’s clinical centerpiece was the Cases in Search of a Diagnosis Panel, where a powerhouse lineup of experts—including Ilona Frieden, MD, and Antonio Torrelo, MD—walked attendees through complex patient scenarios with elusive or evolving diagnoses. The collaborative session showcased the value of group wisdom in unraveling diagnostic mysteries.

Following this, Dawn Siegel, MD, provided updates from the SPD Year in Review, including highlights from the compensation survey results, giving members data-driven insights into workforce trends.

A highlight of the morning was a special session marking SPD’s 50th anniversary, framed through the legacy of the late Robert Sidbury, MD. Moderated by Markus Boos, MD, and Heather Brandling-Bennett, MD, the panel brought together leaders such as Amy Paller, MD, and Peter Lio, MD, to reflect on Sidbury’s contributions and the broader evolution of pediatric dermatology. The conversation offered a moving tribute and an inspiring vision for the future of the specialty.

Robert Sidbury, MD, MPH, Leaves a Lasting Legacy in Pediatric Care

Following time for poster viewing, the program resumed with 3 targeted lectures. Jennifer Huang, MD, outlined what pediatric dermatologists need to know about Graft-Versus-Host Disease, while Harper Price, MD, presented on the management of congenital melanocytic nevi. Sarah Coates, MD, then delivered a thoughtful talk on the impact of social determinants of health in clinical dermatology, challenging attendees to consider systemic influences on care and outcomes.

The Research Panel, featuring Cory Simpson, MD, PhD, Keith Choate, MD, PhD, and Anna Cristina Garza-Mayers, MD, PhD, rounded out the morning with updates on novel investigations and translational science in dermatology.

The afternoon wrapped up with breakout sessions tailored to diverse interests and career stages. Topics ranged from practical tips for inbox management and EHR efficiency (led by Mimi Cabrera, MD) to resilient communication, leadership strategies for section chiefs, and a social media workshop titled In the Spotlight: Mastering Media, Messaging, and Social Media. An Advanced Practice Provider-focused session on biologics and targeted therapies, led by Aditi Murthy, MD, also underscored SPD’s commitment to inclusive, multidisciplinary education.

Lisa Swanson, MD, FAAD, Highlights Expanding Pediatric Treatment Options

With a focus on both honoring the past and preparing for the future, Friday’s sessions reinforced SPD 2025’s central themes: community, clinical excellence, and forward-thinking innovation.

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