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Electives, Rotations, and Preceptorships
in Dermatopathology
The Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology conducts an ongoing program for physicians who are interested in obtaining specialized knowledge and experience in dermatopathology.
The training program focuses on the following areas:
- Instruction in dermatopathology, including immunopathology
- Research activities
- Evaluation
The program consists of hands-on training (60%) and research activities (40%). Trainees will not be engaged in any productive employment.
The training program is intended to offer trainees in-depth, specialized knowledge and experience in diagnosing, treating, and researching diseases of the skin. This is accomplished through "sign outs" with Dr. Elston and, from time-to-time, one of the Associates, at the multi-headed microscope and through clinicopathologic correlation. Students learn microbiologic aspects of dermatopathology involving primary or secondary infections by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, and how to diagnose skin tumors such as basal-cell carcinoma, melanoma, and squamous-cell carcinoma. Appropriate application of specialized stains for recognition of infectious agents is also taught. Experience in entomology is provided by hundreds of examples of insect bites, including those of mosquitoes, ticks (some of which are vehicles for Lyme Disease), bedbugs, and spiders. The entire range of cutaneous expressions of infections by HIV, e.g., bacillary angiomatosis, eosinophilic pustular folliculitis, and Kaposi’s sarcoma, is also observed during the program.
Trainees are exposed to immunopathologic study of tissue using many different antibodies by immunohistochemistry techniques and correlating them against conventionally stained hematoxylin and eosin sections. Dr. Elston is especially expert in this sub-study of dermatopathology.Trainees may also broaden their experience by spending time in the dermatology clinic or pathology department at our affiliated hospital, SUNY-Downstate Medical Center.
The spirit of intellectual inquiry and commitment to generating new knowledge has always been a cornerstone of the Ackerman Academy. Research opportunities and projects vary, depending on each trainee’s individual needs.
Each of the trainees may opt to be instructed in training and supervision of laboratory personnel, laboratory techniques, and office procedures under the guidance of the laboratory supervisor.
The progress of each trainee is monitored (daily) at the microscope and, episodically, in writing. This informal method of observation allows Dr. Elston and the Associates to determine how best to enhance each trainee’s educational experience. Teaching is carried out in the Socratic fashion at a 27-head Leica microscope.
Although subject to change, normal training hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please see the complete schedule for more details.
Both U.S. and foreign medical students, residents, and practicing physicians are welcome to study at the Academy. Please visit the admissions section for details on how to apply.
Medical students and residents receive free elective training, whether from the U.S. or abroad. Practicing physicians pay $500 per week or $2000 per month for up to 3 months of elective training.
The Academy can issue a DS-2019 form for the issuance of a J-1 visa. Please visit the resources section for more information on the J-1 visa and the requirements for issuing the DS-2019 form.
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