Dermatology

Dermatology is the branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases 1 , a unique specialty with both medical and surgical aspects. 2 3 4 A dermatologist takes care of diseases, in the widest sense, and some cosmetic problems of the skin, scalp, hair, and nails.

Coined in English 1819, the word dermatology originated in the form of the words dermologie in French, 1764 and, a little later, dermatologia in Latin, 1777 . 5 The term derives from the Greek " " dermatos , genitive of " " derma , "skin" 6 from " " - dero, "to flay" 7 "-logy, "the study of", a suffix derived from " " logos , amongst others meaning "speech, oration, discourse, quote, study, calculation, reason", 8 in turn from " " - lego, "to say", "to speak".

Readily visible alterations of the skin surface have been recognized since the dawn of history, with some being treated, and some not. In 1801 the first great school of dermatology became a reality at the famous H pital Saint-Louis in Paris, while the first textbooks Willan's, 1798 1808 and atlases Alibert's, 1806 1814 appeared in print during the same period of time. 5 In 1952, Dermatology was greatly advanced by Dr. Norman Orentreich's pioneering work in hair transplantation.

After earning a medical degree M.D. or D.O. , the length of training for a general dermatologist in the United States is a total of four years. This training consists of an initial medical or surgical intern year followed by a three-year dermatology residency. 3 10 11 Following this training, one- or two- year post-residency fellowships are available in immunodermatology, phototherapy, laser medicine, Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic surgery or dermatopathology. Within the past several years, dermatology residencies in the United States have been the most competitive in terms of admission. 12 13

Dermatologists have been leaders in the field of cosmetic surgery. 15 Some dermatologists complete fellowships in surgical dermatology. Many are trained in their residency on the use of botox, fillers, and laser surgery. Some dermatologists perform cosmetic procedures including liposuction, blepharoplasty, and face lifts. 16 17 18 Most dermatologists limit their cosmetic practice to minimally invasive procedures. Despite an absence of formal guidelines from the American Board of Dermatology, many cosmetic fellowships are offered in both surgery and laser medicine.

A dermatolopathologist is a pathologist or dermatologist who specializes in the pathology of the skin. This field is shared by dermatologists and pathologists. Usually a dermatologist or pathologist will complete one year of dermatopathology fellowship. This usually includes six months of general pathology, and six months of dermatopathology. 19 Alumni of both specialties can qualify as dermatopathologists. At the completion of a standard residency in dermatology, many dermatologists are also competent at dermatopathology. Some dermatopathologists qualify to sit for their examinations by completing a residency in dermatology and one in pathology. 20