Dr Priska McDonald is a Melbourne-based dermatologist and Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists, with subspecialty expertise in the diagnosis and management of skin cancer and sun-damaged skin. She is known for her meticulous, evidence-based care and her warm, thoughtful approach to patient treatment.
Dr McDonald holds a medical degree from Monash University and undertook her specialist dermatology training in Melbourne, complemented by further experience at St George’s Hospital in London. Prior to specialising in dermatology, she completed Basic Physician Training at The Alfred Hospital, which gives her a strong foundation in internal medicine and a unique ability to correlate cutaneous signs with underlying systemic disease—a skill she applies regularly in diagnosing complex skin conditions.
Her expertise in skin cancer care spans the full spectrum, including the management of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and actinic keratoses. She has worked extensively with the Victorian Melanoma Service, and currently holds public hospital positions at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and The Alfred Hospital, where she is involved in multidisciplinary management of complex skin cancers.
Dr McDonald regularly performs comprehensive skin checks, surgical excisions, cryotherapy, and photodynamic therapy, and integrates advanced diagnostic tools such as dermoscopy and digital monitoring to guide treatment decisions. She also has a strong interest in the prevention and repair of sun damage, offering tailored treatment plansthat include topical therapies, laser and light-based procedures, and preventative skin care education.
Alongside her procedural and oncological expertise, Dr McDonald is a skilled general dermatologist, with a broad interest in both adult and paediatric dermatology. She takes the time to educate patients and families about their skin health and is particularly attuned to the needs of children and adolescents.
Her dual training as a physician and dermatologist enables her to offer a comprehensive, holistic approach to skin health, where skin symptoms are thoughtfully considered within the context of a patient’s overall health