Dermatology

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Severerash

Dermatologica llaser

Dermatology is a specialized branch of medicine that primarily focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the skin, hair, nails, and their associated diseases.

Etymology of Dermatology

The term dermatology was first introduced to the English language in 1819. It has its roots in the Greek word "δέρματος" (dermatos), which is the genitive form of "δέρμα" (derma), meaning "skin".

Historical Developments in Dermatology

Observations and treatment of visible skin alterations can be traced back to the beginnings of human history. The first significant step towards the development of modern dermatology was taken in 1801 with the establishment of the Hôpital Saint-Louis in Paris - the first renowned school of dermatology. Around the same time, the first comprehensive textbooks and atlases on dermatology, such as those by Willan (1798–1808) and Alibert's (1806–1814), were published.

The Path to Becoming a Dermatologist

Becoming a dermatologist requires rigorous training after earning a medical degree, either a M.D. or a D.O.. In the United States, an aspiring dermatologist must complete four years of additional training to become board-certified by institutions like the American Academy of Dermatology, American Board of Dermatology, or the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology. This involves an initial medical, transitional, or surgical intern year, followed by a three-year dermatology residency.

Following residency, many dermatologists opt to further specialize in various subfields of dermatology through one- or two-year post-residency fellowships. These may include disciplines such as immunodermatology, phototherapy, laser medicine, Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic surgery, or dermatopathology.

Dermatology residency positions have consistently been among the most competitive to secure in the United States for several years. This high level of competition underscores the importance and demand for skilled dermatologists.

Areas of Specialization in Dermatology

Dermatology is a diverse field, with multiple sub-specialties that practitioners can focus on post-residency. These can include:

• Immunodermatology: This subfield concentrates on diagnosing and treating skin diseases caused by disorders of the immune system.
• Phototherapy: Phototherapy utilizes specific wavelengths of light to treat chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
• Laser Medicine: Laser medicine involves the use of lasers in the treatment of various dermatological conditions, including cosmetic issues such as unwanted hair or skin discoloration.
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery: This surgical technique is used to treat skin cancer, utilizing layer-by-layer removal of cancerous cells to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible.
• Cosmetic Surgery: Cosmetic dermatology focuses on improving appearance through procedures like botox injections, chemical peels, and other cosmetic procedures.
• Dermatopathology: Dermatopathologists specialize in diagnosing and studying skin diseases at a microscopic and molecular level.

The Importance and Influence of Dermatology

The role of dermatology in healthcare is multi-faceted. Not only does it encompass the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases, but it also involves enhancing an individual's aesthetic appearance and managing diseases that manifest on the skin but may originate elsewhere in the body.

Skin is the largest organ of the body and serves as a protective barrier against environmental factors. Hence, skin health is integral to overall health and well-being. Dermatologists play an essential role in educating patients about sun protection, skin cancer prevention, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle in maintaining skin health.

The study and practice of dermatology have also had significant influence on other medical specialties. Insights from dermatological research have led to advancements in immunology, as many skin diseases are caused by immune system abnormalities. Furthermore, techniques developed in cosmetic dermatology, such as the use of lasers and other minimally invasive procedures, have been adapted for use in other fields, such as ophthalmology and gynecology.

As a medical discipline, dermatology continues to grow and evolve, aided by technological advancements and ongoing research. It remains a highly sought-after specialty due to its diverse scope and the significant impact it has on patients' quality of life.

Dermatological Procedures and Techniques

Dermatologists employ a range of techniques and procedures in their practice, from simple visual examinations to complex surgical procedures. These can include:

• Skin Biopsies: A dermatologist may remove a small sample of skin to diagnose diseases, including skin cancer.
• Excisions: This procedure involves the removal of skin lesions or other abnormal growths from the skin, usually under local anesthesia.
• Cryotherapy: This is a treatment where low temperatures are used to destroy abnormal tissue, like warts or precancerous skin lesions.
• Laser Treatments: Dermatologists use lasers to treat a variety of conditions, including hair removal, skin resurfacing for scars or wrinkles, and removal of certain types of skin lesions.
• Photodynamic Therapy: This treatment uses light sources combined with a photosensitizing agent to treat certain types of skin cancer and pre-cancerous lesions.
• Topical Therapies: A wide range of medications can be applied directly to the skin to treat various conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
• Systemic Therapies: In some cases, medications can be administered orally or through injection to treat skin diseases.
• Cosmetic Procedures: Dermatologists often perform cosmetic procedures, including chemical peels, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, dermal fillers, and sclerotherapy for varicose veins.

The Future of Dermatology

Dermatology is a rapidly evolving field of medicine. With the ongoing development of new technologies, the scope of what dermatologists can diagnose and treat continues to expand.

Technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) are paving the way for exciting developments in the field. For instance, AI is being used to develop tools that can help dermatologists diagnose skin cancers and other skin conditions more accurately.

Additionally, the field of cosmetic dermatology continues to grow and evolve. New treatments are constantly being developed and improved upon, helping individuals improve their appearance and self-confidence.

Research in the field of dermatology continues to drive our understanding of skin health and disease. From novel treatments for common skin conditions like acne and psoriasis to groundbreaking therapies for skin cancer, the future of dermatology holds much promise for improved patient care and outcomes.

List of Dermatologists (USA)

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

US territories

• American Samoa
• Guam
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Puerto Rico
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• District of Columbia

See Also

• Skin Disease
• Hair
• Nails
• Immunodermatology
• Phototherapy
• Laser Medicine
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery
• Cosmetic Surgery
• Dermatopathology

References

Dermatology Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia

Dermatology and Rheumatologic diseases A - Z

A | B | C | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | O | P | R | S | T | V

Glossary of dermatology