Clinical dermatology

What is clinical dermatology?

Dermatology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. Clinical dermatology is a specialised field of dermatology that focuses on the diagnosis and management of skin diseases.

The skin is the largest organ of the body and is composed of three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and provides a barrier against the environment. The dermis is the middle layer of the skin and contains blood vessels, nerves, and hair follicles. The subcutaneous tissue is the deepest layer of the skin and contains fat cells.

What are the most common skin disorders?

There are numerous skin disorders that can affect people of all ages. Some of the most common skin disorders include acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and skin cancer. Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes thick, scaly patches on the skin. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels on the face. Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the skin cells.

How are skin disorders diagnosed and treated?

The diagnosis of skin disorders is based on a thorough medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Treatment options for skin disorders depend on the type and severity of the condition. Some common treatment options include topical medications, oral medications, light therapy, and surgery.