The New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated's definition is comprehensive:
Dermatology involves but is not limited to study, research, and diagnosis of normal and disorders, diseases, cancers, cosmetic and ageing conditions of the skin, fat, hair, nails and oral and genital membranes, and the management of these by different investigations and therapies, including but not limited to dermatohistopathology, topical and systemic medications, dermatologic surgery and dermatologic cosmetic surgery, immunotherapy, phototherapy, laser therapy, radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy.
How many people get skin disease?
The skin is the largest and most visible organ of the body. It reflects the health of the body and acts as a barrier against injury and bacteria. Unfortunately, at one time or another, nearly everyone has some type of skin disease - infants, children, teenagers, adults and the elderly. One in six (15%) of all visits to the family doctor (GP) involves a skin problem.
What are the most common skin disorders?
Common skin diseases include
Skin cancer
Warts
Fungal infections
Dermatitis
Psoriasis - a skin disorder which affects 100,000 New Zealanders.
Acne affects every teenager to one degree or another.
Hand dermatitis, resulting from external contact with detergents and household chemicals, affects most women with young families.
One in six of all children develop atopic eczema
One in five persons suffers from cold sores (herpes simplex).
How are dermatologists trained?
Dermatologists are medical doctors. In New Zealand, after completing six years of medical school the dermatologist-to-be must complete a general medical training programme which usually takes 3 to 4