2024 Reunion of Champions

Dr. Denise Metry is a distinguished academic pediatric dermatologist with a profound dedication to children with vascular birthmarks. She completed her medical education, residency, and fellowship at the University of Texas McGovern Medical School in Houston, Texas. Following her training, Dr. Metry joined the dermatology faculty at Texas Children's Hospital, where she served as the liaison for the Sturge-Weber Foundation and practiced for 23 years. In 2024 she transitioned to Driscoll Children's Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas, a mission-based pediatric institution serving a vast geographic area of 33,000 square miles across 31 counties in South Texas, extending to the Mexico border.

Dr. Metry is also deeply committed to patient advocacy, patient-centered research, and mentoring the next generation of pediatric dermatologists.

Throughout her career, Dr. Metry has authored over 130 research publications aimed at enhancing clinical knowledge and care for children with vascular birthmarks. Her notable contributions include establishing diagnostic criteria for both PHACE and LUMBAR Syndromes. As a founding member of the Hemangioma Investigator Group, she has played a pivotal role in advancing research in this field.

Dr. Metry's leadership experience is extensive. She has served as Clinic Chief, Fellowship Director, and Division Chief of Dermatology at Texas Children's Hospital. Her professional service extends to roles such as Vice-President of Communications and Executive Board member for the Society of Pediatric Dermatology, and Associate Editor for Pediatric Dermatology. Currently, she chairs the Vascular Birthmarks Research Consortium for the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA) where she established a laser subgroup—a new area of research focus within PeDRA. She also currently sits on the Board of Directors for the PHACE Syndrome Community.

While patient care remains her primary focus, Dr. Metry is also deeply committed to patient advocacy, patient-centered research, and mentoring the next generation of pediatric dermatologists. Her ongoing dedication to improving the lives of children with vascular birthmarks continues to shape her distinguished career in pediatric dermatology.