St. Luke’s University Health Network has been named to an elite global clinical care network focused on treating a rare birthmark-related condition, becoming one of a select group of institutions worldwide recognized for specialized care.
The health system was formally inducted into the Sturge-Weber Foundation Clinical Care Network, making it the 27th institution globally to receive the designation. It is the first provider in the Lehigh Valley and one of only two in Pennsylvania to earn the recognition.
The designation highlights St. Luke’s role in treating patients with Sturge-Weber syndrome and port wine capillary malformations, a type of birthmark that can be associated with neurological and eye-related complications. The condition often requires coordinated care across multiple medical specialties.
“As a parent of a child with Sturge-Weber syndrome, having a Clinical Care Network in my hometown is truly incredible,” says Julia Terrell, Director of Community Relations for the Sturge-Weber Foundation. “For years, families in the Lehigh Valley have had to travel long distances for specialized care—trips that are costly, time-consuming, and hard on patients. The expertise may have always existed, but families didn’t always know where to go or who to trust. Now, having a dedicated team close to home means families have clear direction, trusted care, and no longer feel alone in their journey. That truly warms my heart.”
Officials said the recognition reflects the expertise of the network’s Birthmark Center, led by pediatric dermatologist Dr. Andrew C. Krakowski, who specializes in advanced laser treatments for vascular birthmarks in both children and adults.
“With support from The Jeanne and Richard Kaskey Foundation, St. Luke’s has evolved to become a national leader for these types of complex pediatric and adult laser surgeries, and we are delighted to partner with the Sturge-Weber Foundation on its global mission to be a resource for patients with port wine birthmarks,” says Andrew C. Krakowski, MD. “Being named a Clinical Care Network site is a testament to the tireless effort and clinical excellence that the multidisciplinary St. Luke’s team offers our local Lehigh Valley community and, regionally, across eastern Pennsylvania.”
The Birthmark Center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists in dermatology, neurology, ophthalmology, radiology and other fields to manage the complex needs of patients.
Health officials said the addition of St. Luke’s to the network expands access to specialized care in eastern Pennsylvania and supports broader efforts to improve treatment, research and education related to the condition.
