The Medical Dots
Research & Publications
Research should do more than add to medical knowledge; it should help us ask better questions, make thoughtful decisions, and improve people’s lives. Explore selected work from my journey as a physician, researcher, and health educator.
Using Ertapenem Responsibly for Severe HS
Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a painful, long-term skin condition that can deeply affect daily life. This publication examines how physicians can balance symptom relief and patient goals with the risks of using a powerful antibiotic, including antibiotic resistance.
Published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2026
My role: First author
I led the writing and revision of this publication and collaborated with dermatology and infectious disease specialists.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2026
Beyond the Skin: How Sunlight May Affect the Whole Body
Sunlight is well known for its effects on the skin, including the risk of skin cancer—but its influence may extend throughout the body. This 10-year review examined research on the possible connections between sunlight exposure and heart health, infections, cancer, and overall lifespan.
The findings suggest that sunlight may have some health benefits, but important questions remain. Our review highlights the need for balanced health guidance that recognizes both the possible benefits of sunlight and the well-established risks of too much ultraviolet exposure.
My role: Co-author
I contributed to reviewing the scientific evidence and developing and revising the publication as part of a collaborative research team.
Journal of Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, 2026
Ethical Care After Research Biopsies
Skin biopsies are often needed in dermatology research, but they may leave raised scars or lasting skin discoloration, especially in people with darker skin tones. This publication examines researchers’ ethical responsibility to clearly explain these risks, carefully select and monitor participants, and provide treatment when a study procedure causes scarring or changes in skin color. It also calls on research sponsors to define, and cover, the care available for these complications. Providing this support protects participants, reduces their financial burden, and helps build trust and inclusion in dermatology research.
My role: Co-author
I contributed to examining the ethical issues and developing and revising the publication with the research team.
Published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2025
Building a More Inclusive Future in Medicine
Differences in background, culture, and life experience can shape both access to healthcare and the care patients receive. This publication examined efforts at the University of Missouri School of Medicine and its Department of Dermatology to create a more inclusive medical community. It highlights the importance of reducing bias, mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds, building a healthcare workforce that reflects the people it serves, and preparing physicians to care for patients from all walks of life. These efforts can strengthen medical education, build trust, and help more patients receive respectful, high-quality care.
My role: First author
I led the development and writing of this publication in collaboration with faculty mentors at the University of Missouri.
Published in Missouri Medicine, 2023
When a Benign Skin Growth Resembles Skin Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer. Desmoplastic trichoepithelioma is a rare, noncancerous growth that can look very similar under the microscope—making an accurate diagnosis especially important. This case report describes a patient whose cheek lesion contained both growths next to each other. We also reviewed existing research to explore why these conditions may occur together and how distinguishing between them helps patients receive the right treatment.
My role: Second author
I made a major contribution to reviewing the medical literature and developing, writing, and revising the publication with the research team.
Published in Cureus, 2024