As a patient (or caregiver to a patient), participating in pediatric dermatology research might involve simple activities such as describing how you feel, answering questions about your experiences, or even just monitoring what happens over time with your skin. Also, sometimes tests such as blood draws or skin biopsies might be involved in skin research. Clinical trials are a type of research where volunteers try new treatments to see if they are safe and effective. Patient safety is always a major priority in any research study or clinical trial, and anyone considering getting involved in research should talk to their health care provider.

PeDRA’s Virtual Education offers patients and families meaningful ways to engage with research, connect with scientists, and better understand participation in studies and clinical trials. Our offerings are continually growing, so check back often for new content. Additionally, you’ll find links to trusted external resources for additional educational support.

Through the PeDRA Community Spotlight series, PeDRA shines a light on a different patient community, highlighting the incredible work of patient advocacy organizations, the patient journey, and the importance of research.

PeDRA is dedicated to connecting patients and families with advocacy and support groups. Whether you are struggling with a recent diagnosis or facing the daily challenges of a disease, there are organizations and resources that can help! PeDRA proudly partners with many patient advocacy organizations to ensure the patient voice is reflected in the research we do.

The charge of the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance Patient Advisory Committee (PtAC) is to inject the perspectives and priorities of patients and parents into PeDRA’s research activities, and to identify high-priority, cross-disease studies to be pursued by PeDRA investigators.

Patients and families are invited to join us at the PeDRA Annual Conference, which typically takes place in October or November. This is an opportunity to meet fellow patients and families, talk with representatives from various advocacy organizations, mingle with researchers, participate in discussions and learn from experts during presentations and workshops. In partnership with the Children’s Skin Disease Foundation (CSDF), we also host Mini Camp Wonder at the Conference—a free, kids-only camp for children with skin diseases and conditions.

The PeDRA membership community is vibrant, diverse, and full of individuals who distinguish themselves through service to others and to the field of pediatric dermatology research. The PeDRA Awards Program seeks to recognize individuals who have made truly unique and impactful contributions to the field, the organization, and those around them. Each year, PeDRA seeks nominations for a Mentor of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Community Member of the Year.

Search for a pediatric dermatologist near you through the Society for Pediatric Dermatology’s (SPD) online directory.