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ODAC Sessions

A First-Time Attendee’s Experience at ODAC 2025 from Next Steps in Derm

By Media Coverage, ODAC Sessions

Dermatology Conference for Young Dermatologists

Dr. Kala Hurst recently attended ODAC dermatology conference and published her experience on Next Steps in Derm.

A First-Time Attendee’s Experience at ODAC 2025: A Conference Worth Attending
As a first-time attendee at the 2025 ODAC Dermatology Conference, I was beyond impressed with my experience. From the expertly curated sessions to the invaluable networking opportunities, ODAC delivered an immersive and engaging educational experience. If you are considering attending in the future, let me assure you it is absolutely worth it.

A Dynamic Learning Experience
ODAC Dermatology Conference’s structure kept attendees engaged with a series of one- to two-hour sessions, each consisting of digestible 15- to 20-minute presentations. These talks, led by renowned experts in dermatology, covered a diverse array of cutting-edge topics, including new treatments for alopecia, breakthroughs in systemic medications, and advances in the management of neutrophilic dermatoses. The high-yield nature of these sessions ensured that attendees walked away with practical pearls they could immediately apply in their practice. My notebook was filled with valuable insights and takeaways from the sheer volume of groundbreaking information presented.

Hands-On Learning: Live Demonstrations and Workshops
Beyond lectures, ODAC offered a hands-on approach to learning through live demonstrations and workshops. Watching expert injectors perform filler and botulinum toxin injections provided attendees with real-time insight into advanced aesthetic techniques. The workshops on deroofing for hidradenitis suppurativa, suturing techniques, and wound dressings all led by specialists in the field, were particularly enlightening, offering step-by-step guidance. These interactive sessions allowed attendees to gain confidence in procedures that they may not have been exposed to in residency or everyday practice.

Unparalleled Networking Opportunities
ODAC Dermatology ConferenceOne of the standout aspects of ODAC was its emphasis on networking. The conference’s exhibit hall featured an impressive array of pharmaceutical, OTC, and device companies showcasing the latest in dermatologic treatments and technologies. But what truly set ODAC apart was the intimate networking events, such as coffee talks with faculty and session leaders. These informal gatherings provided the rare opportunity to engage with thought leaders in dermatology, ask candid questions, and learn more about their professional journeys. As a dermatology resident, I found these discussions particularly inspiring and valuable in shaping my career path.

Resident-Focused Programming
This dermatology conference demonstrated a strong commitment to resident education through dedicated sessions tailored to the unique needs of those in training. The Derm In-Review Board Review sessions covered all major dermatology topics, offering an excellent opportunity for residents to reinforce their knowledge. Additionally, a newly introduced session on engaging with industry and expanding professional networks was met with great enthusiasm. Many residents took full advantage of this opportunity to connect with industry leaders, ask about non-traditional career paths, and explore potential collaborations beyond clinical practice.

Why You Should Attend ODAC
If you’ve been contemplating whether ODAC is worth attending, I can confidently say that it is. Not only is the conference set in the beautiful backdrop of Orlando, but it also provides an unrivaled educational experience that blends practical clinical insights, hands-on learning, and professional development. Whether you are a practicing dermatologist looking to stay ahead of the curve or a resident eager to enhance your knowledge and connections, ODAC is a must-attend event.

Mark your calendars for January 16-19, 2026—I’ll see you there! Register now.

Next Steps in Derm is the source of this article and was republished with permission. View the original article and more at nextstepsinderm.com

Atopic Dermatitis at ODAC with Shawn Kwatra, MD

By Medical Dermatology, ODAC Sessions

ODAC dermatology atopic dermatitis shawn kwatra

At the ODAC 2025 conference, Dr. Shawn Kwatra, Professor and Chair of Dermatology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and a leading figure in chronic inflammatory skin diseases, delivered a compelling presentation on atopic dermatitis (AD). Dr. Kwatra provided an overview of current AD treatment options, along with valuable insights into the latest advancements emerging in the field of dermatology.

Attend ODAC 2026 for atopic dermatitis updates like this and more.  Click here for the full article and more ODAC derm coverage.

 

Emerging Therapies in Psoriasis: Highlights from ODAC Dermatology Conference 2025

By Medical Dermatology, ODAC Sessions

Psoriasis CME Psoriasis Conference

At the 2025 ODAC Dermatology Conference, Dr. Anthony Fernandez, MD, PhD, delivered an insightful presentation on Advances in Psoriasis Treatment: Emerging Therapies and Future Directions.

Despite the abundance of systemic medicines to treat psoriasis, ongoing research provides hope for even better outcomes for patients with psoriasis in the future.

In his session, Dr. Fernandez reviewed the evolution of systemic psoriasis treatments with 14 agents approved since 2004 including 12 biologics and two small molecule inhibitors. He also discussed promising advancements that could reshape the treatment landscape.

Highlights include:

  • Oral cytokine inhibitors such as DC806, DC853, and icotrokinra, all demonstrating encouraging efficacy in early-phase clinical trials.
  • Nanobody therapies, including sonelokimab, showing superior skin penetration and robust PASI responses in phase 2 trials.
  • A novel treatment concept known as “knockout therapy”, explored in the KNOCKOUT study by Dr. Andy Blauvelt, using high-dose IL-23 inhibitors to potentially induce long-term remission or even disease modification.
  • The potential future role of CAR T-cell therapy in psoriasis, based on early success in other immune-mediated diseases.

Despite existing therapeutic options, the field of psoriasis treatment continues to evolve rapidly. These emerging therapies offer hope for longer-lasting remission and more targeted, effective care.

This session summary was written by Dr. Kala Hurst and published on Next Steps in Derm. Register for ODAC 2026 for more psoriasis updates.

 

Building Strategic Industry Partnerships: Key Insights from ODAC 2025

By ODAC Sessions

Building relationships with dermatology sponsors

Building Bridges: Purposeful Networking, Collaboration, and Career Growth with Industry Relationships

At the 2025 ODAC Dermatology Conference, Dr. Adam Friedman, co-chair of ODAC, led an essential session for dermatology residents and early career dermatologists on “Building Bridges: Purposeful Networking, Collaboration, and Career Growth with Industry Relationships,” sponsored by Johnson & Johnson.

Working with industry partners has become a crucial career pathway for dermatologists, whether through advisory board positions, research grants, or collaborative opportunities. Dr. Friedman’s session provided actionable strategies for:

  • Understanding different industry contact roles and how to approach them effectively
  • Landing initial partnerships with pharmaceutical and medical device companies
  • Maintaining long-term professional relationships that benefit both parties
  • Navigating ethical considerations when working with industry sponsors
  • Handling situations when opportunities don’t materialize

This session exemplifies ODAC’s commitment to providing practical career development alongside clinical education. The panel featured both early-career and experienced dermatologists alongside industry professionals, offering diverse perspectives on building meaningful industry relationships.

Johnson & Johnson’s sponsorship of this session demonstrates how industry partners contribute to valuable educational content that directly benefits dermatology professionals’ career advancement.

This type of programming showcases why ODAC continues to be the premier dermatology conference for both clinical excellence and professional development, attracting top-tier sponsors who value meaningful engagement with the dermatology community.

Dermatology conference and working with industry

Watch Dr. Friedman share best practices for maintaining long-term relationships and his personal ethics in working with companies. Plus hear his guidance on how to respond if you’re left out of an opportunity.

U.S. Olympic Gymnast, Shannon Miller, to Give ODAC Keynote Address

By ODAC Sessions

Shannon Miller, 7 time Olympic medalist and leader of the 1996 Magnificent 7, will give the keynote address at the ODAC Dermatology, Aesthetic & Surgical Conference (ODAC). The address, “Gold Medal Mindset with Shannon Miller: Motivation, Teamwork & Commitment to Excellence,” will be given Friday, January 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando.

Shannon will discuss how the gold medal mindset not only helped her win seven Olympic medals, but also battle cancer, and how these lessons continue to help her through the day-to-day effort of finding that illusive work-life balance. Shannon will share what it takes to succeed: the importance of goal setting, teamwork, positive attitude and resiliency.

“We are honored to have Shannon share her story of overcoming personal challenges, which can be an inspiration to us all,” said Shelley Tanner, CEO and president of SanovaWorks, which produces ODAC. “Shannon serves as the inaugural keynote speaker in recognition of our 20th ODAC. We look forward to developing a long tradition of keynote addresses that inspire and encourage for the year ahead.”

ODAC provides pearls and clinical updates in medical, aesthetic and surgical dermatology through an engaging learning experience, including live demonstrations, panel discussions and audience Q&As. ODAC historically attracts nearly 700 dermatology physicians, residents, nurse practitioners and physician assistants each year. Up to 26.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ are available. The conference runs from January 14 through January 17.

ODAC is a product of SanovaWorks, publisher of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (JDD) and producer of the Skin of Color Update conference.

Registration is available at orlandoderm.org.

ODAC 2021 Pre-Conference Sneak Peek Inflammatory Diseases Symposium

By Medical Dermatology, ODAC Sessions No Comments
Free sneak peek! Pre-registration required.
Free ODAC Sneak Peek on Inflammatory Diseases
Thursday, December 3rd, 2020 | 5:00 – 7:05 PM ET
Join us for a free sneak peek of the 2021 ODAC Dermatology, Aesthetic & Surgical Conference! Our elite, world renowned faculty will present the Inflammatory Diseases Symposium featuring topics such as acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, rosacea and more! Registration for the sneak peek is complimentary. Limited seats available, register today.
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Innovative Insights Into and Implications of Inflammatory Insults of the Integuments
What better way to lessen the blow of a global pandemic then with an aggressive alliteration? Well if that’s not your cup of caffeine, certainly the incredible evidenced based and interactive pre-ODAC symposium on common inflammatory skin diseases with national experts will turn that melancholy into a good ol’educational jolly. Arm yourself with both the latest evidence and unique anecdotal experience of our experts. What’s new and how to do? That’s why we pulled together this faculty crew.
Symposium Moderator
Adam Friedman, MD
Acne: Changing Practices in a Changing Clinical Landscape
Jenna Lester, MD
NPF-AAD Psoriasis Management Guidelines: What you need to know
Abby Van Voorhees, MD
Atopic Dermatitis Update 2021
Adam Friedman, MD
Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa in 2021 and Beyond 
Joslyn Kirby, MD
Treating Rosacea in 2021   
Julie Harper, MD
Live Q&A 

Dr. Adam Friedman Discusses 2021 ODAC Dermatology Conference Program

By Aesthetic Dermatology, Medical Dermatology, ODAC Sessions, Patient Care, Surgical Dermatology, Video Pearls No Comments

ODAC Dermatology, Aesthetic & Surgical Conference’s Medical Director, Dr. Adam Friedman, discusses the ODAC 2021 program, reasons to attend and more!

To view the full agenda, click here: https://orlandoderm.org/agenda/

ODAC Dermatology Conference is the premier clinical dermatology conference expertly curated to provide comprehensive, annual updates and fresh pearls in medical, aesthetic and surgical dermatology. Check out our blog and media coverage.
The 2021 ODAC dermatology conference focuses on new uses for old treatments, incorporating new treatments, products and treatment lines, critical updates in diagnosis guidelines, as well as advanced techniques for enhancing your surgical and nonsurgical patient outcomes.

Therapeutic Updates in Melanoma

By Medical Dermatology, ODAC Sessions, Patient Care, Video Pearls No Comments

ODAC Dermatology Conference, in partnership with Next Steps in Derm, interviewed Dr. David Miller, Instructor in Dermatology and Medicine at Harvard Medical School and member of the Department of Dermatology and the Department of Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he is co-director of the Merkel cell carcinoma treatment program. Watch as he shares important updates on Immuno-Oncology (IO) strategies for melanoma.

Melasma: Treatment Pearls from the Expert

By Medical Dermatology, ODAC Sessions, Video Pearls No Comments

Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with ODAC Dermatology, Aesthetic and Surgical Conference, interviewed Dr. Vic Ross, Director of the Scripps Clinic Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology Center in San Diego, CA, on his approach and the various interventions he uses for the treatment of Melasma. Watch as he shares fresh practical pearls immediately useful in your practice.

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