About Dermatology

Dermatology is a medical practice that focuses on skin care. Dermatologists perform many procedures, ranging from cosmetic to medical, that support the well-being of the body's largest organ. This article will go over what dermatology is, the history of dermatology, the types of dermatologist, and finally, how to become one.

Identification

Dermatology treats different kinds of skin disorders, varying from purely physical attributes, such as scars, birthmarks and wrinkles, to medical issues such as infections, rheumatic diseases and cancer. Dermatologists are intensively trained in anatomy, physiology and medicine in general. They then train specifically in the practice of dermatology. Treatments for skin disorders range from medication and dietary changes to surgery.

History

The first work on dermatology, called de morbis cutaneis ("On the diseases of the skin") was produced by Geronimo Mercuriali, an Italian doctor, in 1572. Other doctors, such as Dr. Alfred Hardy, Dr. Howard Franklin Damon and Dr. George Henry Fox, produced photographic identification of dermatological diseases in the late 1800s. Since then, dermatology has grown into a thriving area of medicine all over the world.

Types

There are two types of dermatology, but in addition, dermatologists may choose to specialize even further by working with specific populations, such as pediatrics or geriatrics, or with specific disorders, such as cancer or infectious disease. The two types of dermatology are cosmetic dermatology and dermasurgery.
Many dermatologists practice both kinds, but some will only focus on one.

Function

Cosmetic dermatology consists of procedures such as dermabrasion (which improves acne scarring and wrinkles) and Botox injections. The procedures that cosmetic dermatology employs are generally noninvasive and minimally painful. Cosmetic dermatologists also prescribe topical creams and ointments for issues such as acne, psoriasis and eczema, and oral medication for dermatalogical diseases or tumors. Surgical dermatologists perform cutaneous surgery, such as removal of cancerous tissue and varicose veins. They use more invasive techniques, including scalpel excision, lasers or cryosurgery for removing cancerous skin cells or correcting birth defects.

Time Frame

Dermatologists complete a minimum of 12 years of schooling, between college and post-graduate training. They must have a bachelor's degree in pre-medicine, followed by a four-year medical school degree, then a year of post-graduate training. The student may then apply for admission to graduate to a dermatology residency. After a three-year residency, the dermatologist is then qualified to take the board examinations from the American Board of Dermatology. Successful completion and passing grades on these exams makes them Diplomates of the American Board of Dermatology, and they may choose to either practice dermatology or go on to a fellowship to specialize in areas such as surgical dermatology, dermatopathy (pathology of skin disease) or dermatological immunology. These fellowships usually last one to two years.