Meetings, Transactions and Society News

Abstract

The 11th Prague Dermatology Symposium organized by the International Society of Dermatology (ISD) and the 2nd Medical School, Charles University of Prague, held last September 15–17, 2005 was a huge success. Professor Jana Hercogova saw to it that distinguished speakers from all over the world like Prof. Klaus Wolff, Bergman, and Lotti shared their expertise and experiences to the attendees. The topics were very comprehensive, varied and updated. The discussion ranged from infectious diseases, to dermatopathology to clinical procedures and cosmetics. Being a recipient of the International Society of Dermatology Young Traveller's Award 2005, I was given the opportunity to present my case of “Streptococcal Septic Vasculitis in a child with Dengue Hemorrhagic fever’ during the residents” forum. The organizers were able to bring in fifteen other residents from different countries that shared their cases and studies as well. It was a very exciting and inspiring learning experience to be able to attend such a conference. The ISD has given young dermatologists like me a chance to meet colleagues from different countries. We were able to learn from each other by sharing our knowledge and practices in dermatology. In addition, we all had a great time since Prague is a very beautiful and historical city. A very accommodating staff also attended to us. As I speak for all the other young dermatologists, it has been an honor for us to be granted this award. More power to the ISD. As long as this organization can continue to bring together dermatologists from all over the world, unity and cooperation will prevail. Mabuhay! The Maria Duran Committee organized a special session on Thursday November 17, 2005. This was arranged through the International Society of Dermatology's participation at the recent Colegio Ibero-Latinoamericano de Dermatologia meeting in Cartagena, Columbia. The program moderator was Dr. Antonella Tosti, Bologna, Italy, a charter member of the Maria Duran Committee. Dr. Tosti officiated over two distinguished lectures and the awarding of the Maria Duran Medals. The celebrated recipients were Dr. Marcia Ramos-e-Silva, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, who spoke on “Photoprotection and Black Skin” and Dr. Ana Kaminsky, Buenos Aires, Argentina who spoke on “Terminal Hair Follicle Occlusion Syndrome (Acne Inversa)”. These two outstanding women of world dermatology were each granted these prestigious awards in recognition of their contributions in the spirit of the Maria Duran ideal. Dr. Tosti also introduced the Maria Duran Lecturer, Dr. Robin Marks from Melbourne, Australia and presided over the program. Dr. Marks gave an eloquent presentation on “The Public Health Approach to Control of Skin Disease-Making a Difference in a Time of Economic Rationalism”. His presentation underscored his significant contributions to dermatologic conditions affecting women and children and the influence of his work on global public health. Acknowledgment was also given to Dr. Clarisse Pratti, Porto Alegre, Brazil as the recipient of the Maria Duran Fellowship. This award is designed to fund young women dermatologists to attend regional and international meetings. Congratulations to each of the award winners and thank you to Dr. Tosti. This recognition is especially significant because it celebrated the life and work of Maria Duran in her home country of Columbia. A touching tribute to Dr. Duran was included in the program and reminded those attending of her vibrant, many faceted life and her passion for dermatology. For more information on Maria Duran, the Maria Duran Committee and the activities it funds, please visit the International Society of Dermatology's website at http://www.intsocdermatol.org