Mission

The mission of the CSD is to advocate on behalf of individuals with skin disease. This is accomplished by:

• supporting basic science and clinical research
• fostering physician and patient education
• generating awareness of skin disease
• supporting the growth of member organizations through the sharing of mutual concerns, which may increase the pace of discovery or a cure, while improving the quality of life for those affected.


The CSD also works closely with the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) to coordinate research efforts for all skin diseases. Members of the Coalition meet annually with members of Congress and testify when selected before the appropriations committees to educate Congress and the public on the seriousness of skin diseases while stressing the need for increased medical funding.



Short CSD History

In June of 1986, five organizations (Alopecia Areata Foundation, Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Association, the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias, Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types and the National Psoriasis Foundation) formed specifically to present its opinions on issues relating to NIAMS. In January of 2008, the Coalition officially incorporated as a 501 c3.<

The CSD works closely with our affiliate members: American Academy of Dermatology, Dermatology Nurses Association, and the Society for Investigative Dermatology