Dr. Michael Piepkorn

Dr. Michael Piepkorn is a skilled clinical dermatologist, dermatopathologist, and researcher with more than five decades of experience in the medical field. Throughout his career, he has held academic positions and been actively involved in medical research for over twenty years. His expertise lies in dermatopathology, a specialized field that combines dermatology and pathology to diagnose skin diseases. His research has primarily focused on melanoma skin cancer and psoriasis, where he has made significant contributions to the medical community. He spends most of his time at Dermatopathology Northwest in Seattle, Washington, where he diagnoses many skin diseases using biopsies. He also works at the University of Washington (UW), where he staffs a pigmented lesion and melanoma clinic at the Roosevelt outpatient facility. His dual commitment to patient care and academic research reflects his dedication to improving skin disease diagnosis and treatment. With board certifications in pathology, dermatology, and dermatopathology, Michael Piepkorn, MD, has qualifications that testify to his deep knowledge and expertise in these fields. He has held significant academic appointments at renowned institutions, including the University of Utah and the University of Washington. In 2000, Dr. Michael Piepkorn co-founded a skin pathology lab in Bellevue, Washington, further advancing the field of dermatopathology and providing essential insights into skin disease diagnostics. One of Piepkorn, PHD's most groundbreaking achievements is his research on melanoma skin cancer. He played an instrumental role in identifying the p16 or CDKN2A gene, a key familial melanoma gene. This pioneering discovery earned him an award from the American Society of Dermatopathology in 2004, recognizing his significant contributions to melanoma research. He has worked in this area, dramatically impacting the understanding and diagnosis of melanoma, solidifying his reputation as a leader in dermatopathology. Piepkorn has authored more than 170 original journal articles, making him a prolific figure in medical research. His published work spans various topics, including invasive melanoma diagnosis, second-opinion strategies, and melanoma staging. His research has dramatically improved the accuracy and reproducibility of melanoma diagnosis, establishing Michael as a trusted authority in dermatopathology. In addition to his research, Michael has mentored and educated many aspiring dermatologists and dermatopathologists. He has helped train numerous clinical professionals, ensuring that the future of dermatology and dermatopathology remains bright. His mentorship extends beyond clinical practice, as he has also contributed to advancing melanoma research by guiding medical trainees in basic research. He earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 1973 and his PhD from the University of Washington in 1980. He completed his residency in pathology and dermatology at the University of Washington. In the 1990s, he held a joint faculty appointment in the Department of Dermatology and Pathology. His academic background was further strengthened by undergraduate studies at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, where he laid the foundation for his distinguished career. He has been recognized for his teaching excellence throughout his career. He has received several prestigious teaching awards, including the Clinical Faculty Distinguished Teaching Award from the University of Washington Residency Program in 2009 and 2018. These accolades highlight his dedication to educating future medical professionals and his profound influence on the dermatology and dermatopathology fields. In recognition of his substantial contributions, the Piepkorn Endowed Chair in Dermatology Research was established in his honor at the University of Washington in 2011. This endowed chair supports ongoing research in dermatology and ensures that his legacy will continue to impact the field for years to come. He is also a member of the Society for Investigative Dermatology and has been a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology since 1981. Outside his medical and academic endeavors, Michael enjoys landscaping, gardening, and spending time in the wilderness. He is an avid mountaineer and backpacker, having climbed hundreds of mountains across the United States and abroad. His passion for nature photography allows him to capture the beauty of the natural world during his outdoor adventures. These hobbies reflect Piepkorn’s deep respect for nature and his commitment to maintaining an active and balanced lifestyle, which complements his professional work and enriches his life.