The Full Spectrum of Dermatology: A Diverse and Inclusive Atlas
A visual representation of dermatologic diseases in all skin tones.
AVAILABLE SUMMER 2021
Closing the gap
A council of dermatology leaders across the country are working together to create a comprehensive atlas that will address what has become a well-documented gap in dermatology education. From resources and programming used in the training of and continuing education for dermatologists to clinical trials and epidemiologic studies, there is a gross overrepresentation of white or light skin patients, which does not mirror the overall population. Because darker skin tones are underrepresented, both in education and in research, this can lead to under or misdiagnoses for all patients.
“The lack of dermatologists of color combined with the small percent of dermatologic education dedicated to patients with skin of color has created racial disparity in the delivery of care to patients of color. Gorbatenko-Roth et al has confirmed that patients of color are concerned that race-discordant dermatologists do not have specific knowledge of their skin and hair conditions and/ or routine skin and hair care regimens. Additionally, there is concern that these dermatologists do not offer individualized treatments for their disorders.” [1]
The Full Spectrum of Dermatology: A Diverse and Inclusive Atlas will feature side-by-side images of the most commonly seen dermatology conditions in an array of skin tones.
The Process
Dermatologists and dermatology research fellows trained in medical photography are collecting images for the Atlas at four sites across the U.S. These partners were provided equipment, instructions, and guidelines on how to capture the most commonly seen dermatology conditions in the full spectrum of skin tones.
The Editors
The Full Spectrum of Dermatology: A Diverse and Inclusive Atlas will be developed by co-editors Misty Eleryan, MD, MS, and Adam Friedman, MD, and published by SanovaWorks and Educational Testing & Assessment Systems.
Misty Eleryan is a Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology (MSDO) Fellow at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Eleryan explains the great responsiblilty that comes with providing proper education to dermatology residents and doctors:
“As physicians, we take an oath to do no harm to our patients; however, we are potentially harming patients of color by not adequately educating ourselves on the variations of presentations of common dermatoses on all skin tones. Our atlas will fill that void and hopefully assist in closing the gap in health disparities among patients of color, who are often misdiagnosed or rendered diagnoses very late in the disease process.”
Adam Friedman is Professor and Chair of Dermatology and serves as Residency Program Director, Director of Translational Research, and Director of the Supportive Oncodermatology Program in the Department of Dermatology at The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Science. Dr. Friedman expresses his hope of what The Full Spectrum of Dermatology will offer:
“To effectively diagnose and manage skin diseases in all patients, dermatologists need to be fluent in the diverse array of clinical presentations of even the most common skin diseases in all skin tones. I hope this atlas is one of many initiatives that will help ensure our patients receive the highest quality of care.”
“We have identified both emerging and established experts who have a proven track record in and a passion for diversity and inclusion in dermatology,” said Dr. Friedman regarding the advisory council.
Funding provided by
Skinbetter Science and Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, provided the funding for this dermatology atlas. This funding will provide the Atlas to all U.S. dermatology residents and program directors..
“Understanding the need for racial equity in all sectors of society, Skinbetter Science with Allergan Aesthetics supports the Atlas’ efforts to advance the education of healthcare providers practitioners. This comprehensive collection of images is designed to better serve the full spectrum of skin tones–enabling physicians and other healthcare providers practitioners the opportunity to bring that to life is an important place to start.” – Jonah Shacknai, Executive Chairman of Skinbetter Science
About SanovaWorks
SanovaWorks is the parent brand for its portfolio of products, including the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, and producer of the ODAC Dermatology, Aesthetic & Surgical Conference, and the Skin of Color Update Virtual 2020 conference.
About Educational Testing & Assessment Systems
Educational Testing & Assessment Systems is publisher of Dermatology In-Review and Next Steps in Dermatology.
About Skinbetter Science
The Skinbetter Science team of aesthetic experts has a profound understanding of skin aging and what it takes to help defy the effects of time. Tapping into a rich dermatological heritage, the team at Skinbetter Science set out to create a new paradigm in clinical skincare. Cutting-edge, data-driven science is the principal driving force behind all our unique formulations. Skinbetter Science award-winning products are available exclusively through the leading dermatology, plastic surgery and medical aesthetics practices nationwide. For more information, visit Skinbetter.com
About Allergan Aesthetics
At Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, we develop, manufacture, and market a portfolio of leading aesthetics brands and products. Our aesthetics portfolio includes facial injectables, body contouring, plastics, skin care, and more. Our goal is to consistently provide our customers with innovation, education, exceptional service, and a commitment to excellence, all with a personal touch. For more information, visit AllerganAesthetics.com
REFERENCE
An Analysis of Skin of Color Dermatology Related Content on Instagram, – Taylor M Wells BS, Chandler W Rundle MD, Mindy D Szeto BS, Colby Presley , Robert P Dellavalle MD PhD MSPH, Journal of Drugs in Dermatology
