Allison J Zarbo, MD

Biographical Statement

Dr. Allison Zarbo is a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained pediatric dermatologist. A native of Ann Arbor, Michigan, she graduated from the University of Michigan majoring in History of Art and minoring in Biochemistry. Dr. Zarbo attended Wayne State University School of Medicine, serving as vice president of her class, and completed her internship, dermatology residency and pediatric dermatology fellowship at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. 

Dr. Zarbo enjoys interacting with infants, children and adolescents, which explains the finger puppets and games typically found in her white coat. She believes her relationships with her patients and their families are key to pursuing optimal treatment. For those who are more comfortable communicating in Spanish, Dr. Zarbo speaks the language with advanced proficiency. Dr. Zarbo works closely with the Vascular Anomalies Team, which combines the expertise of pediatric plastic surgery, interventional radiology, hematology/oncology, and pediatric dermatology to create personalized plans for patients with vascular lesions. She also participates in Eczema Clinic, which combines the expertise of allergists and pediatric dermatologists to help children with severe eczema. Teaching and education of both medical trainees and her patients and their families continue to be her passions. 

After hours, Dr. Zarbo loves spending time with her husband Juan and immediate family in Michigan; spoiling Cali, her Papillon dog; rock climbing; and traveling, especially to Colombia where her extended family lives.

Care Philosophy

"A supportive relationship with my patients and their families is key to pursuing optimal treatment."

Research Interests

Dr. Zarbo’s areas of interest in pediatric dermatology include: birthmarks, vascular lesions (including infantile hemangiomas), genetic syndromes, rheumatologic disorders with skin manifestations (including lupus, dermatomyositis), diaper rashes, skin of color, psoriasis, eczema (atopic dermatitis), skin infections, and oncodermatology (skin manifestations secondary to anti-cancer treatments).

Awards & Honors

• Top Docs - Pediatric Dermatology, Hour Magazine (2020)
• Dermatology Resident Teaching Award, Henry Ford Hospital (2020)
• Jan Rival, MD, Outstanding Resident Award, Henry Ford Health System (2020)
• Henry Ford Star Award (2019)