Dermatology : Introduction
Dermatology is one of the branches of medical sciences related to physiology
and pathology of the skin, hair and nails. The field involves the diagnosis
and treatment of conditions and diseases of the skin and appendages.
The skin is part of the integumentary system which is the largest organ system of the human
body. The word Integumentary comes from the Latin
word 'tegere', which means to cover. In humans, this system accounts for about 16 percent of total body
weight and covers 1.5-2m2 of surface area. Accessory structures of
the skin are the hair and nails, sweat glands and oil glands. The skin and
accessories are prone
to various acute and chronic problems from acne, rashes, warts, hair and nail
problems to skin
cancer, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and so on. Hair
related problems like hair loss, dandruff etc. are common. These diseases and
beauty consciousness among people have made dermatology which treat diseases as
well as cosmetic problems related to skin and scalp, a career of the present age.
A physician trained to treat diseases and conditions of the skin is called a dermatologist. Dermatologists manage acute and chronic disorders of the
skin i.e they take care of diseases in the widest sense, and some cosmetic
problems of the skin, scalp, hair, and nails. Dermatologists also study the structure and function of the skin, and the
relationship between skin pathologies and malfunctions of other organs of the
body. They assess the affected area and take skin scrapings, tissue samples, or
blood samples for further testing and examination. They often examine samples
using a microscope or through biological and chemical testing. Once a diagnosis
has been made, dermatologist creates a treatment plan. Dermatology often
overlaps the practice of other medical specialties, e.g., neurology and internal
medicine.
Dermatologists have been leaders in the field of cosmetic surgery. The terms
Dermatology and Cosmetology are often mistaken as one and the same. But, Dermatology and
Cosmetology are
two entirely different streams which deals with human skin and related issues.
One main difference between Cosmetology and Dermatology is that- Cosmetology is
the study of beauty treatments which have practical applicability which include hairstyles,
hairdressing, shampoos, skin care specialties and nail treatments etc.
Dermatology is a division of medicine which include the study of skin and
related issues, prescribes medicine and even conduct surgery if needed. It
is an actual science. It also involves various methods of diagnosing, treating,
and protecting skin from external and internal impacts. Acne scar removal, treatment of
aged or sun-damaged skin, chemical peel, dermabrasion / dermaplaning,
cryosurgery etc. are some of the treatments done by a cosmetic dermatologist.
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