Dr. Michael Piepkorn

Dr. Michael Piepkorn is a respected dermatologist, dermatopathologist, and medical researcher with a career spanning more than 50 years. Known for his detailed work in melanoma and skin disease research, he has combined clinical care, laboratory science, and education throughout his professional life. He currently practices at Dermatopathology Northwest in Seattle and contributes to patient care through the University of Washington’s melanoma and pigmented lesion clinic.

Board-certified in pathology, dermatology, and dermatopathology, Michael Piepkorn, MD, has held academic appointments at both the University of Utah and the University of Washington. Over the years, he became recognized for his ability to bridge scientific research with practical diagnosis and patient treatment. In 2000, he helped establish a skin pathology laboratory in Bellevue, Washington, further expanding access to specialized dermatopathology services in the region.

A major focus of Michael Piepkorn PHD career has been melanoma research and diagnostic accuracy. He was part of the team that identified the familial melanoma gene p16 (CDKN2A), an important breakthrough in understanding inherited melanoma risk. His expertise in melanoma pathology and disease classification earned him recognition from the American Society of Dermatopathology. He has also contributed extensively to studies exploring consistency and precision in melanoma diagnosis.

In addition to his clinical and research work, Michael has published more than 170 medical journal articles addressing melanoma, skin lesion interpretation, cancer staging, and dermatologic pathology. His work has supported improvements in standardized reporting methods and the development of diagnostic tools used by pathologists. Many of his studies have examined how specialists interpret melanocytic lesions and how diagnostic processes can become more reliable and reproducible.

Education and mentorship have remained central to Michael’s professional journey. He trained in pathology and dermatology at the University of Washington after earning his medical degree from the University of Minnesota and completing his PhD in Seattle. Throughout his academic career, he helped train future dermatologists, dermatopathologists, and physician scientists. His contributions to teaching were recognized with distinguished faculty teaching awards from the University of Washington residency programs.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Michael Piepkorn enjoys spending time outdoors through mountaineering, backpacking, and nature photography. He has climbed hundreds of mountains across the United States and abroad, reflecting a lifelong appreciation for exploration and the natural world. His passion for science, education, and the outdoors continues to shape both his professional legacy and personal life, while the endowed dermatology research chair established in his honor supports future advancements in the field.