Sybert Stresses Smart Genetic Testing in Dermatology

In an insightful interview at the 2025 Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD) Annual Meeting, Virginia Sybert, MD, shared reflections on her career, the evolving role of genetic testing in dermatology, and the enduring value of community and curiosity in the field. A retired pediatric dermatologist, medical geneticist, and trained pediatrician, Sybert spent decades practicing in Seattle, including at the University of Washington and Group Health/Kaiser, before retiring from clinical care earlier this year.

Sybert’s SPD talk focused on the practical integration of genetic testing in dermatology clinics. She emphasized 3 key takeaways: ensure the testing is necessary, select the right type of test, and understand how to interpret the results. Acknowledging the complexity of each of these steps, she strongly advocated for collaborative partnerships between dermatologists and geneticists to improve care and diagnostic accuracy. She noted that while genetic testing remains underutilized in many dermatologic conditions, inappropriate overuse and misinterpretation are equally concerning.

In addition to her clinical and academic insights, Sybert touched on the emotional and psychological aspects of working in pediatric dermatology. She acknowledged how humbling and rewarding it can be to care for children with complex genetic skin disorders, noting that these experiences often reinforce a clinician’s sense of purpose. She also highlighted the importance of mentorship—not only receiving it, but also giving it back.

Reflecting on her deep ties to the SPD community, Sybert expressed gratitude for its supportive, inclusive culture. She fondly recalled how early mentors like the late Nancy Esterly, MD, made junior members feel welcome and valued—a legacy the organization continues to uphold. Sybert was honored as the third recipient of SPD’s prestigious Hall of Fame Award, following trailblazers Amy Paller, MD, and Anne Lucky, MD.

Sybert also spoke candidly about the challenges facing medicine today, including the pressures of industrialization and the erosion of joy in clinical care. Still, she encouraged young physicians to find excitement in discovery—even in the most common conditions like acne—and to remember the vital impact they have on patients’ lives.

“Everything is genetic,” she said, highlighting the boundless opportunities for research and clinical insight. Her advice to the next generation? Find what fascinates you—and pursue it relentlessly.