This magnified image shows a basal cell carcinoma. While dermatologist can spot this common skin cancer in a skin exam, it is only through a microscope that we can make a definitive diagnosis that it is a skin cancer. That is why at Vanguard, our team includes both dermatologists and dermatopathologists.

The diagnostic stage of medicine is pivotal, involving the clinician’s assessment of a patient’s history and examination findings to pinpoint the root cause of their ailment. As medical technology advances, we’ve learned that traditional history-taking and physical exams alone are not always sufficient for accurate diagnosis. Fortunately, modern technology provides numerous tools to aid in this process, with pathology being one of the most enduring and valuable methods.

Dermatopathology: A Critical Subspecialty of Dermatology

Dermatopathology is a medical subspecialty that studies skin, hair, and nail diseases at a microscopic level. This entails studying patient tissue samples to determine the underlying cause of their condition. This process includes several key steps: sampling the tissue through a biopsy, processing it through grossing, embedding, cutting, and staining, and finally, analyzing the tissue under a microscope and interpreting the results.

In-House Dermatopathology Lab

Vanguard Skin Specialists is the only dermatology practice in southern Colorado with an in-house dermatopathology lab. Since 2015, Vanguard’s pathology lab has enabled us to handle the entire pathology process from start to finish, providing patients with timely results.

To meet the increasing demand from our growing patient base, we recently expanded our lab which is located at the new Central office.

Vanguard’s Dermatopathologists

Our team of two board-certified dermatopathologists, Dr. Michael Leslie and Dr. Benjamin Freemyer, are highly trained in interpreting pathology specimens. Both have received advanced training from leading institutions in dermatopathology. They are highly regarded by peers and have advanced knowledge in their fields.

In addition to their dermatopathology expertise, our dermatopathologists are also board-certified dermatologists. This dual certification is crucial, as integrating clinical and pathological knowledge is essential for accurate diagnoses. Being on-site allows our dermatopathologists to directly review patient charts and consult with the clinicians who performed the biopsies. This close collaboration enhances their ability to make precise diagnoses and recommend appropriate treatments.

Impact of Dermatopathology on Patients

The combination of an onsite lab and board-certified dermatopathologists means that patients receive timely, accurate diagnoses. Vanguard has the highest standard of care for medical practice. It means that at Vanguard, a physician must have both dermatology and dermatopathology board certification to read slides and make a diagnosis for skin cancer.

This expertise is particularly vital in the diagnosis of skin cancer. Accurately distinguishing between benign lesions and malignant conditions such as nevi and melanoma can be lifesaving. Our dermatopathologists are keenly aware of the importance of their role and are committed to delivering the highest standards of patient care.

About Vanguard Skin Specialists

Vanguard Skin Specialists is a dermatology and plastic surgery practice in southern Colorado. Vanguard believes medicine is a team sport, so has assembled a team of medical professionals to provide comprehensive and coordinated care for all skin concerns. Call 719-355-1585 to schedule your annual skin cancer screening exam. Or, schedule your appointment online.

Meet Our Dermatopathologists

Dr. Michael Leslie has practiced in Colorado Springs since 2014, and he has been frequently named one of the city’s Top Docs by a vote of peers. Dr. Leslie completed a PhD in biomedical science at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Leslie attended medical school at the University of Texas at Houston, where he graduated as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He completed his dermatology residency at McGovern Medical School where he was chief resident and pursued a fellowship in dermatopathology.

Dr. Benjamin Freemyer pursued his medical education at McGovern Medical School in Houston where he graduated as a distinguished member of the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He completed his residency and dermatopathology fellowship at McGovern Medical School. Dr. Freemyer recently co-authored an article on utilizing dermatopathology to diagnose tender nodules on the legs1. This educational piece outlines the histological criteria essential for diagnosing patients with these nodules, providing valuable insights for other dermatopathologists.

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References

1. Freemyer B, Mays S, Rapini R. Acute Tender Papules on the Arms and Legs. Cutis. 2024;114(3):87-94. doi:10.12788/cutis.1088