معرفی
Lacey L Kruse, MD is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. She serves as Program Director for the Pediatric Dermatology Fellowship at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and directs the Pediatric Pigmented Lesion Center of Excellence, specializing in complex pediatric dermatological conditions including skin cancer and inflammatory disorders.
Education:
- MD: Southern Illinois University (2009)
- Residency: Southern Illinois University Hospitals, Dermatology (2013)
- Fellowship: Northwestern University McGaw Medical Center, Pediatric Dermatology (2014)
Dr. Kruse's research focuses on pediatric melanoma and pigmented lesions in children, with significant contributions to understanding genetic drivers like ALK fusions in infant melanoma. Her work on atopic dermatitis examines real-world disease progression and psychosocial impacts, emphasizing the mental health burden of chronic skin conditions. She maintains a strong commitment to medical education, developing curricula for trainees across multiple institutions.
Recent publications reveal trends in pediatric skin cancer epidemiology and the intersection of dermatology with mental health. Her multicenter studies on melanoma risk factors and the PEDISTAD observational trial for atopic dermatitis demonstrate translational research bridging clinical practice and patient outcomes.
Scientific Awards:
- Distinguished Alumni Early Career Award (SIU School of Medicine, 2025)
- Competitive Professional Development Pool Award (Lurie Children's, 2025)
- Teaching Pin (Northwestern, 2024 and 2018)
- Excellence in Education Award (Department of Pediatrics, 2023)
- William Weston Research Award (Society for Pediatric Dermatology, 2014)
- Mentorship Award (Women’s Dermatology Society, 2012)
As Fellowship Program Director, Dr. Kruse mentors pediatric dermatology trainees while leading national committees including the Society for Pediatric Dermatology Fellowship Directors Committee and American Board of Dermatology Item Writing. She chairs multiple educational task forces advancing pediatric dermatology training standards.
She directs the Pediatric Pigmented Lesion Center of Excellence at Lurie Children's Hospital, coordinating a multidisciplinary team of dermatologists, oncologists, and surgeons for comprehensive care of children with complex pigmented lesions and melanoma.
