On behalf of the Organising Committee, it is my great pleasure and honour to welcome you to the 17th Congress of the European Academy Of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV 2008) which, for the first time, takes place in Paris, the city of lights. Paris, in its double role of Congress hosting city and capital of fashion, became, a few years ago, our source of inspiration for the EADV 2008 theme: “Beyond Fashion”.

The city still remains a world hot spot for haute-couture, new trends and creativity; and so why this theme? Because it helps us remember as dermatologists we have the obligation of working in accordance with a high standard of care and evidence based medicine, beyond fashion. We are now at the Congress Opening and when I take a look back at the past 4 years, EADV PARIS 2008 is like a jigsaw: every single piece has been gently placed next to the other, keeping our theme in mind and giving shape to a prominent and multi-dimensional scientific programme which I hope, will be for all participants a powerful learning and exchanging experience.

Many distinguished and internationally renewed experts take part in the Congress to provide you with an innovative and comprehensive overview of the latest research developments and advances in Dermatology and Venereology. Attendees will be able to tailor-make their programme and select their points of interest among over 140 sessions of different formats and topics: from plenary and what’s new lectures to interactive tests, from courses and lunches with experts to symposia, workshops, forums.

In addition, and further to the successful call for abstracts, over 1700 posters will be on display in the poster area during the entire duration of the Congress and more 150 free communications will be delivered in dedicated sessions. The sub-speciality meetings which are scheduled on Wednesday 17th September are also an essential part of the Congress and a great opportunity for exchanges in specific fields. The Industry has also and once more, showed support and commitment to this milestone meeting: they will share their knowledge with the audience at large exhibit area where more than 150 companies are represented and during the 27 satellite symposia held over 4 days.

Finally, impressing and exciting are also the variety and number of nationalities that are represented in the programme and attendance: more than 80 countries from all continents! This shows us that EADV is stretching out far beyond the European boundaries; junior and senior dermatologists and venereologists worldwide in demand for exchanges and cooperation have recognised the high scientific profile of its annual Congress.

We hope that you will have a fruitful Congress and that your interaction with your colleagues from all over Europe and more will stimulate networking and will be personally rewarding. We also hope and trust that you will enjoy your visit to Paris and that after these very busy days of work and science, you will have time and pleasure to taste the Parisian “art-de-vivre” and participate in the several and exciting events proposed in the Congress social programme.

Wishing you a memorable EADV PARIS 2008 !

Prof. Pascal Joly
EADV Congress President