Matthew Zirwas, MD, Previews South Beach Symposium

Matthew Zirwas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Columbus, Ohio, and a frequent speaker at national dermatology meetings, recently shared his excitement for the upcoming South Beach Symposium in an interview with Dermatology Times. As a clinician who does not practice aesthetic dermatology, Zirwas highlighted several key sessions that he finds particularly compelling.

One of the topics he is most interested in is exosome research. Initially skeptical about exosomes, he compared them to liposomes, which have been present in dermatology for decades without significant clinical impact. However, recent findings suggest that exosomes may have a meaningful role in dermatological treatments. Zirwas expressed enthusiasm about hearing Michael Gold, MD, a leader in the field, discuss exosome applications.

Another highly anticipated session is a presentation by Shawn Kwatra, MD, the Chairman of Dermatology at the University of Maryland, on prurigo nodularis. Zirwas emphasized the transformative advancements in managing this chronic, debilitating skin condition. He noted that current treatments are dramatically improving patients' quality of life and is eager to hear insights from Kwatra, whom he regards as one of the leading experts on the condition.

Beyond these sessions, the South Beach Symposium is recognized for its balanced focus on both medical and aesthetic dermatology. Zirwas highlighted prominent speakers such as Rox Anderson, MD, a world authority on lasers, and David Goldberg, MD, JD, who is renowned in aesthetic dermatology. Additionally, experts in medical dermatology, includingRuth Ann Vleugels, MD, MPH, MBA, and Peter Lio, MD, will be presenting their latest findings.

Zirwas strongly encouraged early-career dermatologists to attend, citing the symposium’s ability to provide high-quality education across diverse subspecialties. Zirwas himself will be presenting on topical JAK inhibitors in a session on JAKs and TYKs Saturday afternoon.

Dermatology Times staff will be onsite at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel for South Beach Symposium 2025. Subscribe to our eNewsletter for the latest in expert insights, exclusive interviews, and late-breaking data.

To read and listen to more of our conference coverage, click here. Click here for more insights from Zirwas.