From Biopsy Tips to Bold Breakthroughs
The Elevate-Derm Summer 2025 conference at the Grand Hyatt in Deer Valley in Park City, Utah, launched with a dynamic and packed Thursday agenda, bringing together approximately 200 dermatology clinicians to exchange knowledge, sharpen skills, and soak up the mountain air in a high-altitude setting built for connection.
Morning Momentum: Welcome & Real Talk with Pathology
The day kicked off with a delicious breakfast followed by a high-energy welcome from Matthew Brunner, PA-C, whose opening remarks reminded attendees of the vital role collaboration plays in the future of dermatologic care. From laughter to thoughtful reflection, his words set the tone for the day’s learning. At 8:00 a.m., Dr. Ata Moshiri opened the clinical content with “From Report to Reality: Understanding Pathology Results.” In this eye-opening session, Dr. Moshiri stressed that a pathology report is an interpretation, not absolute truth. Key takeaways included the importance of anatomical markers, patient identifiers, and clinical photographs in reducing biopsy errors and enhancing diagnostic precision. Following that, Dr. Walter Liszewski and Kara Mudd, PA-C, led a powerful case-based panel titled “Contact Dermatitis Conundrums.” From hidden workplace exposures to pediatric school-based allergens, the discussion underscored the detective work needed in patch testing. Conference attendees then had the opportunity to visit with exhibitors in the exhibit hall and grab a coffee before the upcoming lectures.
Midday Masterclass: Nevi and Trends
As the morning moved into midday, Dr. Moshiri returned with “Atypical Nevi: A Dermatopathologist’s Guide to Patient Conversations.” He encouraged clinicians to retire outdated terms like “dysplastic nevi” in favor of architectural language and emphasized that even with clear margins, atypical nevi warrant long-term vigilance.
Eileen Cheever, PA-C, followed with a “2025 Literature Review,” providing the audience with insights ranging from the implications of isotretinoin in metabolic syndrome to the use of pinto beans as an unorthodox—but surprisingly effective—wart treatment. The geriatric dermatology insights and sunscreen adherence data were especially well received by the group. Attendees then headed across the hall for lunch to fuel up for a day of learning.
Afternoon Immersion: Allergies, Nails, Mucosa, and Live with SkinSync!
Following lunch, the session “Patch Testing Demystified” brought Dr. Liszewski and Kara Mudd back to the stage to help clinicians differentiate between true allergens and irrelevant reactions. Their practical tips made this notoriously nuanced topic feel far more accessible. Dr. Moshiri continued the education with “Melanonychia: When to Biopsy and How to Decide,” outlining nail matrix red flags and decision-making frameworks that clinicians could implement immediately. After the lecture, conference attendees enjoyed a dessert symposium followed by a coffee break with exhibitors, where they had the chance to network and learn about dermatology products. Afterwards, Dr. Liszewski took the lead on “Mucosal Dermatology: Oral and Genital Cases,” exploring a frequently under-addressed area of clinical care and empowering attendees to treat mucosal dermatoses in their practice.
In one of the day’s most anticipated events, Buchi Neita, PA-C, and Shanna Miranti, PA-C, completed a live episode of Elevate-Derm's podcast “SkinSync” along with special guest Douglas DiRuggiero, PA-C, titled Go Forth, Elevate Stewards of Topical Steroids. Douglas shed light on the pros and cons of steroid use in dermatology. Later, Dr. Liszewski finished the learning sessions with intense, rapid-fire presentations on “JAK Inhibitors: Practical Tips for Integration” and “Chronic Urticaria: Unveiling the Next Major Frontier in Dermatology.” These 30-minute lectures gave attendees clear, actionable strategies to update their practice with confidence.
Evening Reflections: Sunset Views and Shared Purpose
After a long day of deep clinical content, attendees gathered at Hailstone Terrace for a relaxing evening under the Utah sky. The “Sundown on the Summit” reception offered stunning views, great conversation, and the kind of decompression only nature and good company can provide.
We're excited to share that conference photos are available for download through the provided link, allowing you to relax and focus on your learning experience. Enjoy capturing these memories!