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Partnership with the IPPF and the American Academy of Dermatology
Partnership with the IPPF and the American Academy of Dermatology
Brittney Schultz
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After a two-year hiatus, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) returned live and in-person to hold their annual meeting in Boston, MA in March 2022. The meeting is attended by dermatologists all over the world and features sessions on many topics important to the dermatology community, including autoimmune blistering diseases.
For several years, IPPF Outreach Director Becky Strong has partnered with Dr. Donna Culton, MD, PhD, (University of North Carolina) to direct a session on pemphigus and pemphigoid (P/P). New this year, the session expanded to include several additional experts in autoimmune blistering diseases, including Annette Czernik, MD, FAAD, (DermMedical), Heather M. Holahan, MD, (University of North Carolina), and Brittney Schultz, MD, (University of Minnesota). The session provided updates for dermatologists treating these conditions in their pathogenesis and management as well as challenging cases, lessons learned, and practical clinical pearls.
The final portion of the session, led by Becky Strong, was unlike other sessions at the AAD meeting. It included a patient perspective on pemphigus vulgaris (PV), where Becky shared the journey surrounding her PV diagnosis, treatment, and everyday living tips. It was some of the most real-world education a dermatologist could receive on what it’s truly like to be diagnosed and live with an autoimmune blistering condition. Becky also provided an update on the IPPF and opportunities for physician engagement and patient advocacy.
As in years past, the 2022 session was highly rated and a wonderful opportunity that brought physicians and patients together to provide education for the international community on autoimmune blistering conditions. Excitedly, it was packed with standing room only. I was honored to be a part of it and hope to attendagain next year!
Brittney Schultz, MD, is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Director of the Autoimmune Blistering Diseases Clinic at the University of Minnesota. She is also a Staff Dermatologist at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center.
