Dermatology Foundation

Gary L. Peck, M.D. To Receive 2002 Dermatology Foundation Discovery Award

Gary L. Peck, M.D., whose research into the therapeutic benefits of isotretinoin (Accutane) led to revolutionary treatment approaches to cystic acne, will be honored as the recipient of the 2002 Discovery Award at the March 22 Annual Meeting of the Dermatology Foundation in San Francisco. 

The Discovery Award was created by the Foundation�s Trustees in 1991 as the specialty�s highest tribute to those colleagues who embody the essence of scientific and intellectual curiosity the Foundation strives to nurture through its Research Awards Program.  

In 1975, while a Senior Investigator in the Dermatology Branch, National Cancer Institute at NIH, Dr. Peck became aware that isotretinoin, a retinoid synthesized by Hoffman-La Roche in Switzerland, had been found effective in the laboratory as a cancer prevention agent.  Because of the historic use of oral vitamin A and topical tretinoin in a wide variety of dermatoses, Dr. Peck began clinical trials of isotretinoin in these disorders.  His initial studies tested the safety and efficacy of isotretinoin as therapy for cutaneous disorders of keratinization, such as Darier�s disease, lamellar ichthyosis and pityriasis rubra pilaris, and for the treatment and prevention of basal cell carcinoma.  He noted that the facial dermatitis induced by isotretinoin resembled the effects of topical tretinoin and, therefore, began a study of isotretinoin in patients with severe, recalcitrant cystic acne.  The therapeutic benefits of isotretinoin were astoundingly successful, particularly in cystic acne, thereby revolutionizing the treatment approach to this commonly disfiguring disorder.

Dr. Peck is the Director of the Melanoma Center and Clinical Director of Cancer Prevention at the Washington Cancer Center, Washington Hospital Center, as well maintaining a private practice in Bethesda, MD.  He holds both undergraduate and M.D. degrees from the University of Michigan and completed his residency at the University of Chicago Hospitals and Clinics prior to joining the NIH research staff in 1969.

Dr. Peck has been honored for his scientific investigations by the American Skin Association, the U.S. Public Health Service and the U.S. Department of Commerce for his patented method for use of orally administered 13 cis-retinoic acid in the treatment of acne. 

The Dermatology Foundation was created in 1964 by a group of concerned dermatologists in order to advance patient care through research.  The nonprofit organization raises contributions from members of the specialty and the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and equipment industries to support a broad-based program of research investigations for medical and surgical dermatology.

Editor's note — modern dermatology context: Peck's isotretinoin work transformed treatment for severe cystic acne, but the dermatology toolkit for mild-to-moderate acne now extends far beyond systemic retinoids. For everyday surface lesions, our reviewers cover the best pimple patches. For acne-prone skincare basics, see the best moisturizers and the best cleansers.

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