{"id":27001,"date":"2025-09-03T15:23:41","date_gmt":"2025-09-03T13:23:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=27001"},"modified":"2026-03-12T09:54:50","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:54:50","slug":"professor-mahlatse-kgokolo-dermatology-research","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/professor-mahlatse-kgokolo-dermatology-research\/","title":{"rendered":"Meet Professor Mahlatse Kgokolo: Pioneering Dermatology Research in South Africa"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-championing-dermatology-with-dedication-and-expertise\" data-level=\"2\">Championing Dermatology with Dedication and Expertise<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-a-journey-of-passion-and-purpose\" data-level=\"2\">A Journey of Passion and Purpose<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-a-leader-in-dermatology-and-research\" data-level=\"2\">A Leader in Dermatology and Research<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-groundbreaking-research-and-global-recognition\" data-level=\"2\">Groundbreaking Research and Global Recognition<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-mentorship-and-legacy\" data-level=\"2\">Mentorship and Legacy<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-new-frontiers-in-dermatology\" data-level=\"2\">New Frontiers in Dermatology<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-a-trailblazer-for-south-africa-and-beyond\" data-level=\"2\">A Trailblazer for South Africa and Beyond<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-championing-dermatology-with-dedication-and-expertise\">Championing Dermatology with Dedication and Expertise<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the world of dermatology, few individuals have made as profound an impact as <strong>Professor Mahlatse Kgokolo<\/strong>, a trailblazer in the field of <strong>skin research<\/strong>, patient care, and <strong>academic leadership<\/strong>. As the <strong>Head of Dermatology at Steve Biko Academic Hospital<\/strong>, Prof Kgokolo has dedicated her career to <strong>transforming dermatology<\/strong> in South Africa and globally. She particularly focuses on the treatment of <strong>rare genetic skin disorders<\/strong> like <strong>xeroderma pigmentosum (XP)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her work is rooted in both <strong>scientific rigor<\/strong> and a <strong>compassionate approach<\/strong>, making her one of the foremost experts in <strong>dermatogenetics<\/strong>. This is the study of genetic disorders affecting the skin, such as XP, which is characterized by extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet light and an elevated risk of skin cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-714981690\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-journey-of-passion-and-purpose\">A Journey of Passion and Purpose<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Prof Kgokolo\u2019s journey into medicine was shaped by early inspiration from her <strong>hometown of Lebowakgomo, Limpopo<\/strong>. A local General Practitioner (GP) had a lasting influence on her career. She recalls the long waits at his clinic, but also the <strong>thoroughness and care<\/strong> he showed his patients, which sparked her passion for medicine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cI always knew, and I was very clear with my mother, that I wanted to be a doctor,\u201d says Prof Kgokolo. This drive, fueled by the example set by her local GP, led her to pursue a career in healthcare with a focus on skin disorders.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Her path to becoming a dermatologist was not easy. She initially started her career as a <strong>pharmacist<\/strong> before transitioning into medicine at <strong>MEDUNSA<\/strong> (now <strong>Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University<\/strong>). Although she was initially drawn to <strong>obstetrics and gynaecology<\/strong>, her fascination with dermatology grew. She realized its unique blend of <strong>scientific research<\/strong> and <strong>hands-on patient care<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-leader-in-dermatology-and-research\">A Leader in Dermatology and Research<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Prof Kgokolo is <strong>South Africa\u2019s only dermatologist to hold three fellowships<\/strong>, a testament to her <strong>unwavering commitment to excellence<\/strong>. She serves as the <strong>President of the <a href=\"https:\/\/cmsa.co.za\/college-of-dermatologists\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">College of Dermatologists<\/a> of South Africa<\/strong> and is a respected figure in the dermatology community, both locally and internationally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her research focuses primarily on <strong>xeroderma pigmentosum (XP)<\/strong>, a rare and life-threatening condition. Under her leadership, significant advancements have been made in understanding the genetic mutations that contribute to XP. This is particularly true in South African populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cBefore I began my PhD, publications indicated that the life expectancy of a South African patient with XP was just 13 years. I set out to change that reality,\u201d says Prof Kgokolo. Her groundbreaking work has contributed to the development of new <strong>guidelines for managing XP<\/strong>, leading to patients living significantly longer and healthier lives.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-2368773476\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-groundbreaking-research-and-global-recognition\">Groundbreaking Research and Global Recognition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of Prof Kgokolo\u2019s most notable contributions has been in the area of <strong>genetic dermatology<\/strong>. Her research led to the identification of <strong>novel genetic mutations<\/strong> in a cohort of South African patients. These findings have helped to advance global understanding of <strong>dermatogenetics<\/strong>. Her work has earned her international recognition and significantly contributed to the global body of dermatological knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her work has also influenced the development of <strong>personalized medicine<\/strong>, particularly in the treatment of rare genetic skin disorders. Prof Kgokolo\u2019s efforts have highlighted the importance of <strong>including underrepresented populations<\/strong> in research. This ensures that treatments and interventions are tailored to the diverse needs of global communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-mentorship-and-legacy\">Mentorship and Legacy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As a mentor, Prof Kgokolo is deeply invested in <strong>shaping the future of dermatology<\/strong> in South Africa. She plays an instrumental role in training <strong>medical students<\/strong> and <strong>registrars<\/strong>. Prof Kgokolo guides the next generation of <strong>dermatologists<\/strong> in their academic and clinical careers. Her ability to balance <strong>leadership<\/strong> in research with <strong>hands-on teaching<\/strong> ensures that her impact extends beyond her own career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of her proudest moments came when five of her <strong>registrars<\/strong> graduated with <strong>double distinctions<\/strong>. They achieved <strong>cum laude<\/strong> honors at both the <strong>Colleges of Medicine of South Africa<\/strong> and the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.up.ac.za\/faculty-of-health-sciences\/news\/post_3205695-up-professor-receives-top-honours-at-the-south-african-health-excellence-awards\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">University of Pretoria<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cI have opportunities to train and positively influence young medical students and registrars,\u201d says Prof Kgokolo. Her commitment to mentorship ensures that her legacy will continue to shape the field for years to come.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-210520815\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-new-frontiers-in-dermatology\">New Frontiers in Dermatology<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking ahead, Prof Kgokolo is spearheading <strong>three PhD projects<\/strong> in collaboration with the <strong>Department of Immunology<\/strong>. These projects focus on areas that promise to significantly advance the field of <strong>dermatology <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/profile\/Mahlatse-Kgokolo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">research<\/a><\/strong>. They aim to further strengthen South Africa\u2019s contributions to <strong>dermatology<\/strong>, particularly in areas of <strong>genetic research<\/strong> and <strong>personalized treatment plans<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her ongoing dedication to improving the <strong>quality of life for her patients<\/strong> continues to drive her research. She seeks to <strong>bridge gaps<\/strong> in the care of individuals with complex dermatological conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Learn how doctors, hospitals, and advocacy groups are working to close the gap and improve young lives. <\/em><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/paediatric-brain-care-south-africa\/\">The Fight to Improve Paediatric Brain Care in South Africa<\/a><\/strong>. <em>Access to specialised brain care for children remains a pressing challenge. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-trailblazer-for-south-africa-and-beyond\">A Trailblazer for South Africa and Beyond<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Professor Mahlatse Kgokolo<\/strong>\u2019s work exemplifies the intersection of <strong>scientific excellence<\/strong> and <strong>compassionate patient care<\/strong>. As a leading researcher, educator, and advocate for those with rare genetic skin disorders, Prof Kgokolo\u2019s career is a model of how <strong>innovative research<\/strong> can change lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her contributions to dermatology not only elevate South Africa\u2019s role in <strong>global medical research<\/strong> but also ensure that <strong>patients\u2019 needs<\/strong>, particularly those from underrepresented communities, are placed at the heart of scientific advancement. Prof Kgokolo\u2019s work continues to inspire future generations of doctors and researchers, fostering a brighter future for dermatology in South Africa and around the world.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Meet Professor Mahlatse Kgokolo, a pioneering leader in dermatology research. Her groundbreaking work on xeroderma pigmentosum has revolutionized skin care in South Africa and beyond.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":27007,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"Meet Professor Mahlatse Kgokolo, a pioneering leader in dermatology research. Her groundbreaking work on xeroderma pigmentosum has revolutionized skin care in South Africa and beyond.","footnotes":""},"categories":[4310],"tags":[7606,2860],"class_list":{"0":"post-27001","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-academia","8":"tag-skin","9":"tag-university-research"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27001","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27001"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27001\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27018,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27001\/revisions\/27018"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27007"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27001"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27001"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27001"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}