Dartmouth-Hitchcock to launch dermatology clinic dedicated to the unique needs of people with Down syndrome

The Telegraph, Nashua, N.H.
·2 min read

Sep. 16—LEBANON — To address the unique dermatology needs of people with Down syndrome, Dartmouth-Hitchcock (D-H) is establishing a Down syndrome Dermatology Clinic at its Manchester clinic, set to open on Sept. 21.

The program will be headed by dermatologist Jillian F. Rork, MD, in partnership with Caitlin M. Yazel, APRN. Rork became interested in working with people with Down syndrome during her pediatric internship at the Massachusetts General Hospital Down syndrome Program, where she saw firsthand the association between Down syndrome and various skin conditions.

"It turned into my mission and passion to take care of people with Down syndrome and change how they receive their skin care," Rork said. "Since before the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been my dream to have a dermatology clinic specifically for people with Down syndrome — to really take our time to educate and empower. We are excited to get started."

There are many associated skin conditions with Down syndrome, including dry skin, excessive dandruff, rashes around the mouth, acne in the groin and armpits (hidradenitis suppurativa), patchy hair loss (alopecia areata), vitiligo and toenail and foot fungus. Many of these skin conditions are treated with topical medicines. Rork and her team will work with their patients to understand their daily routines and devise successful treatment plans for their skin care needs.

Down syndrome is also linked with other medical conditions such as congenital heart disease, celiac disease, chronic ear infections and thyroid disease. The team will consider how treatment plans will affect other medical conditions common with Down syndrome.

Within six months, Rork hopes to develop the Down syndrome Dermatology Clinic's research and data-collecting capabilities. "We have much to learn to improve the lives of people with Down syndrome," said Rork, who is partnering with the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance, the Society for Pediatric Dermatology, the National Down syndrome Congress and other organizations working to bring Down syndrome dermatology research to the forefront.

For more information or to schedule an appointment at the clinic, call D-H Manchester Dermatology at 603-695-2540.