European Society of Dermatopathology

The European Society of Dermatopathology (ESDP) was first established in Zurich in 1979 under the founding presidency of Prof. Helmut Kerl. Born from the conviction that dermatopathology deserved a dedicated European forum, the Society brought together clinicians, pathologists, and researchers from across the continent to share knowledge, harmonise diagnostic standards, and promote education in cutaneous pathology.

Over the following decades, the ESDP grew into the continent's leading professional organisation in its field, building a network of members spanning more than thirty countries. The Society was formally reconstituted under Swiss law in Geneva in 2016, consolidating its governance structure and establishing a permanent secretariat to support its expanding programme of activities.

Today, the ESDP's mission remains unchanged: to foster excellence in dermatopathology through scientific exchange, postgraduate education, and the promotion of diagnostic best practice. The Society organises an annual congress, endorses the ICDP-UEMS Examination in Dermatopathology, and publishes the official open-access journal Dermatopathology in partnership with MDPI.

Membership is open to physicians, pathologists, and scientists working in or with a significant interest in dermatopathology. The Society welcomes both regular members and residents or fellows in training, offering differentiated dues to support the next generation of specialists.