Dr. Mario René Veliz-Chen is a senior dermatology resident at Hospital General San Juan de Dios, Guatemala’s main national referral hospital. He has developed a strong and sustained academic interest in psoriasis, dermatologic surgery, and pediatric dermatology, with a particular focus on improving access to high-quality, evidence-based care for patients in resource-limited settings. His clinical work includes participation in the Center for Psoriasis and Chronic Skin Diseases, where he contributes to the evaluation of refractory cases, the use of excimer laser therapy, and the implementation of practical therapeutic strategies adapted to local availability. His research experience also includes the study of sirolimus in pediatric vascular malformations, and he supported its incorporation into treatment protocols within his institution, helping expand therapeutic access for complex patients. Dr. Veliz Chen has completed specialized training rotations in dermatologic surgery at the Instituto Dermatológico “Huberto Bogaert Díaz” in the Dominican Republic and in dermatopathology at the Centro Médico Militar in Guatemala. He holds a specialization in Scientific Research from the Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala. He has presented work at national and regional meetings and has been awarded the 2025 TeraCILAD and 2024 Colegio Ibero-Latinoamericano de Dermatología (CILAD) scholarships. He is an Adjunct Member of CILAD and Vice-President of the Dermatology Residents and Alumni Association at Hospital General San Juan de Dios (HGSJDD). Dr. Veliz Chen also participates in psoriasis patient education initiatives through the hospital’s dermatology patient support club. His career goal is to help expand equitable, multidisciplinary psoriasis care in Guatemala and Latin America.

Dr. Veliz-Chen will study with IPC Councilor Álvaro González-Cantero at the Hospital Ramón y Cajal in Madrid, Spain.