Dr. Michael Piepkorn is an esteemed clinical dermatologist, dermatopathologist, and researcher with over five decades of dedicated service to the medical field. He has held numerous academic positions and conducted groundbreaking research, particularly in melanoma skin cancer and psoriasis. His extensive expertise in dermatopathology, which is the study of skin pathology, has solidified his reputation as one of the foremost leaders in his field.

He currently practices at Dermatopathology Northwest in Seattle, Washington, where he diagnoses diseases by analyzing skin biopsies. His work at this clinic is complemented by his role at the University of Washington, where he is part of the pigmented lesion and melanoma clinic at the Roosevelt outpatient facility. His ability to combine clinical practice with research ensures he remains at the forefront of the fight against skin cancer.

With board certifications in pathology, dermatology, and dermatopathology, Piepkorn's qualifications and experience are extensive. He has held prominent academic roles at the University of Utah and the University of Washington, contributing to advancing medical knowledge and dermatology practices. In 2000, he co-founded a skin pathology lab in Bellevue, Washington, which has become a vital center for diagnosing and treating skin diseases. His work in both clinical and academic settings has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of dermatopathology.

One of Michael Piepkorn, PHD's most notable contributions to medical science was identifying the p16 or CDKN2A gene linked to familial melanoma. This discovery marked a pivotal moment in melanoma research, providing invaluable insight into the genetic components of skin cancer. Recognizing his research and clinical expertise, the American Society of Dermatopathology awarded Dr. Michael an honor in 2004, further cementing his standing in the field.

He has published more than 170 original journal articles related to medicine. A sample of Dr. Piepkorn’s prolific work includes the following:
“Pathologists' Diagnosis of Invasive Melanoma and Melanocytic Proliferations: Observer Accuracy and Reproducibility Study”
“Assessment of Second-Opinion Strategies for Diagnoses of Cutaneous Melanocytic Lesions”
“Concordance and Reproducibility of Melanoma Staging According to the 7th vs 8th Edition of the AJCC Cancer Staging Manual”
“Malpractice Concerns, Defensive Medicine, and the Histopathology Diagnosis of Melanocytic Skin Lesions”
“Characteristics and Diagnostic Performance of Pathologists Who Enjoy Interpreting Melanocytic Lesions”
“Population-Based Analysis of Histologically Confirmed Melanocytic Proliferations Using Natural Language Processing”
“Pathologist Characteristics Associated with Accuracy and Reproducibility of Melanocytic Skin Lesion Interpretation”
“Skin Cancer Screening: Recommendations for Data-driven Screening Guidelines and a Review of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Controversy”
“Pathologists' Use of Second Opinions in Interpretation of Melanocytic Cutaneous”
“Pathologist Characteristics Associated With Rendering Higher-Grade Diagnoses for Melanocytic Lesions”
“Accuracy of Digital Pathologic Analysis vs Traditional Microscopy in the Interpretation of Melanocytic Lesions.”
“Revision of the Melanocytic Pathology Assessment Tool and Hierarchy for Diagnosis Classification Schema for Melanocytic Lesions: A Consensus Statement”
“MPATH-Dx Version 2.0 Schema for Melanocytic Lesions: A Robust Tool for Standardized Diagnostic Reporting”
“Shifts in Cutaneous Melanocytic Tumor Diagnostic Terminology: Melanocytoma, MPATH-Dx V2.0 and the WHO Skin5”

In addition to his clinical and research contributions, Dr. Piepkorn has played an integral role in educating the next generation of dermatologists and dermatopathologists. He has mentored many young physicians, helping to shape their careers and instilling in them a commitment to scientific research and patient care. His mentorship has helped ensure that the next generation of medical professionals continues pushing the boundaries of knowledge in dermatopathology and melanoma research.

He has been a vital educator at the University of Washington, training numerous clinical and dermatopathologists. His dedication to educating future physicians has had a lasting impact on the field, with his students going on to contribute to medical research and practice.

His impressive educational background laid the foundation for his successful career. He received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 1973 and earned a PhD from the University of Washington in 1980. His residency in pathology and dermatology was completed at the University of Washington, where he also held a joint faculty appointment in the Department of Dermatology and Pathology during the 1990s. These academic experiences were crucial in shaping his understanding of dermatology's clinical and research aspects.

Piepkorn's undergraduate studies at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota provided the initial academic foundation that allowed him to pursue his medical career with distinction. His educational journey reflects his lifelong commitment to learning and his passion for advancing the medical field.

He has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to dermatology and medical education. He has received multiple teaching awards, including the Clinical Faculty Distinguished Teaching Award from the University of Washington’s Residency Program in 2009 and 2018. These awards highlight his exceptional abilities as both a clinician and a mentor.

The Michael Piepkorn Endowed Chair in Dermatology Research was established at the University of Washington in 2011 to honor his significant contributions to the field.

Piepkorn, MD, enjoys outdoor activities outside of his professional accomplishments. He has a passion for landscaping and gardening, and he frequently spends time in nature, participating in backpacking, mountaineering, and photography. His love for climbing has led him to scale hundreds of mountains in the United States and abroad, reinforcing his deep connection to the natural world.