Pathology resident presents research on melanoma at national dermatopathology conference

Muhammad Tahir, M.D., M.S., presents a

poster at the ASDP annual meeting.

Muhammad Tahir, M.D., M.S., a fourth-year resident in pathology at USA Health, recently presented research on melanoma at the American Society of Dermatopathology (ASDP) 61st annual meeting in Chicago.

His poster presentation, “Determining and Comparing the Expression of PTEN, BLF-1, and CDK4 in Melanoma,” focused on examining key molecular markers that may play a role in melanoma progression and its potential therapeutic implications. 

Tahir said attending and presenting at the conference was an enriching experience that reinforced his passion for dermatopathology, which involves the study and diagnosis of skin diseases and disorders.

“As a current pathology resident with plans to pursue a fellowship in dermatopathology, this conference presented a valuable opportunity to engage with experts in the field, present my research, and expand my understanding of current advancements and challenges in dermatopathology,” Tahir said. “The feedback I received was invaluable, helping me gain new perspectives on the implications of my findings and inspiring potential avenues for further research.”

The conference featured a diverse range of presentations, workshops and discussions centered on the latest developments in dermatopathology. The sessions on molecular diagnostics, immunohistochemical advances, and emerging techniques in melanoma and other skin conditions were particularly enlightening, Tahir said. 

“It was motivating to be surrounded by like-minded professionals who are deeply committed to advancing skin pathology and patient care,” he said. “This experience has reinforced my commitment to the field and has made me even more excited about the next steps in my professional journey. I am grateful to the USA Department of Pathology for the opportunity to present my research and participate in such a dynamic and educational event.”

Tahir received a medical degree from Taishan Medical University in Shandong, China. Prior to starting his residency training with USA Health, he earned a master’s degree in molecular pathology from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

USA Health welcomes Benjamin to infectious disease division

Carla G. N. Benjamin, M.D.

Carla G. N. Benjamin, M.D., has had a passion for science all her life, but her fascination with infectious disease is what truly captured her interest. From the West Indies to Brooklyn, New York, to rural southwest Kansas, she now brings the breadth of her research and expertise to USA Health and its infectious disease division.   

“I am drawn to this specialty not only for its cognitive demands – requiring a deep understanding of various body systems and countless pathogens – but also for the profound impact we can have on patients’ lives,” she said. “Witnessing the ‘Lazurus effect’ in our field, where we can cure or significantly improve a patient’s condition, particularly in cases like HIV, is incredibly rewarding.”  

A native of Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean, Benjamin attended medical school at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. She completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in infectious disease at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn, New York.  

“My training in this dynamic and diverse city allowed me to confront the complexities of HIV medicine and research, tropical medicine, transplant immunosuppression, and multidrug-resistant pathogens, alongside other prevalent infectious diseases,” she said.  

From the urban setting in New York, Benjamin transitioned to rural medicine in southwest Kansas.  

“There, I further honed my expertise in skin and soft tissue infections, wound and bone infections, complicated prosthetic joint infections, and the management of COVID-19,” she said. “This experience enriched my understanding of infectious diseases in various contexts, emphasizing the importance of adaptable and patient-centered care.”  

Benjamin, who is board-certified in internal medicine and infectious disease, is also an assistant professor at the Frederick B. Whiddon College of Medicine. She is a member of the Infectious Disease Society of America, American College of Physicians, and Trinidad and Tobago Medical Association.  

“I chose to practice in an academic health system because it embodies an environment of continuous learning, collaboration with like-minded colleagues, and the opportunity to teach the next generation of healthcare providers,” she said. “Being part of an academic institution allows me to engage in research and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge, ultimately benefiting mankind.”  

Benjamin has experience treating COVID-19, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, vibrio, Lyme disease, parasitic infections, blood infections, bone infections, and more.  

She is accepting new patients at the Mastin Internal Medicine Clinic located at 2451 University Hospital Drive, Suite 102 in Mobile. To schedule an appointment, call 251-470-5890.