Dermatologic

Dermatologic refers to dermatology, the medical specialty that focuses on the skin and its diseases, as well as the hair, nails, and mucous membranes. It also encompasses cosmetic and aesthetic aspects of skin health. Dermatologic care is provided by dermatologists, who diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions and may collaborate with other specialists for systemic diseases that involve the skin.

The scope includes inflammatory and infectious conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, fungal and bacterial infections, warts, pigmentary disorders, and hair or nail diseases. It also covers skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, as well as autoimmune blistering diseases, vascular disorders, genetic skin conditions, and benign cutaneous lesions. Diagnostic methods include patient history, physical examination, dermoscopy, skin biopsy, patch testing for allergies, laboratory tests, and imaging for deeper or systemic involvement.

Treatments range from topical therapies (steroids, retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, antifungals, and antibiotics) to systemic medications (antibiotics for severe infections, isotretinoin for acne, immunosuppressants, and biologic agents). Procedural dermatology includes cryotherapy, electrosurgery, surgical excisions, Mohs micrographic surgery for certain cancers, laser and light-based therapies, and chemical peels. Preventive measures such as sunscreen use, skin care regimens, and wound care are integral to management.

Education and practice: Dermatology is a medical specialty requiring residency training after medical school; certification processes vary by country. Subspecialties include pediatric dermatology, dermatopathology, Mohs surgery, cosmetic and procedural dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology. Research areas encompass skin biology, wound healing, pigment cell biology, dermatologic imaging, and translational therapies.