Doctor's In: Dr. Audra Malerba, Dermatologist

This week Dermatologist Dr. Audra Malerba shares her background, interests and favorite things about Smithtown. Check back each week to meet other Smithtown health professionals.

How many years have you been practicing in Smithtown? I have been practicing dermatology in Smithtown for just over six years.

What are your specialties? My practice focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic dermatology. I commonly see and treat everything from psoriasis to skin cancer. I can't stress enough the importance of annual full skin exams. I tell my patients that not all melanomas are black and not all "bad" moles are raised. There are so many misconceptions about skin cancer that it is important to be looked at by a professional. Early diagnosis and treatment saves lives.

What are your hobbies outside of medicine? I am a doctor, mom and wife. When time permits, I enjoy travel, sports and cooking gourmet meals with my husband, who, by the way, is a proud graduate of Smithtown West High School. I love watching the Yankees and my shameful guilty pleasure is watching "So You Think You Can Dance." I have recently taken up golf since a recent shoulder injury prevents me from playing tennis.

What is your favorite thing about being a doctor in Smithtown? I was born in Port Jefferson, raised in East Setauket and lived in Smithtown for several years, so I have been a part of this community my whole life. It is an honor and a privilege to serve the community that has given me so much. In an odd twist of fate, I also find myself treating patients whose parents and sometimes even themselves were treated by my grandfather, Dr. Benjamin Malerba. When that happens I feel a connection to not only my grandfather, but to this community as well.