The medical branch which deals with the skin and skin related diseases is called Dermatology. It interests in study, research, diagnosis and treatments related to skin, hair and nails. An expert on Dermatology is called a Dermatologist.
To understand the term completely we need to know the history behind and the journey it went through in all these years.
History of Dermatology-
The word Dermatology is derived from the Greek words Dermatos and Logia. The earliest evidence that can be found regarding skin surgery are the medical documents known as the Ebers Papyrus, which were from ancient Egypt and dated around 1500 BC. We can find information about skin diseases likes ulcers, rashes and tumors with prescription of medication, surgery and treatment.
In 1572, “On the Diseases of the Skin” was completed by Geronimo Mercuriali in Italy, which was later known as the first scientific work on dermatology.
The first school of dermatology was established in 1801 called Hopital Saint- Louis, in Paris. The first recorded textbook on the subject was also printed during the same era.
Dermatology in India-
India is one of the most ancient and diverse countries with hundreds of different cultures and systems. The history of medicine and dermatology in India cannot be tracked from its origin but we can see its presence in the historic documents. In the ancient world, India developed Ayurveda, a medical practice which uses herbs and plants as the key ingredients of the medicine and using it to cure different diseases.
Also, there is mention of Sushruta who was known as the Father of Modern-Day Surgery. In the records we can find that Sushruta had performed various medical procedures including cosmetic and plastic surgeries.
In today’s world the medical science in India is highly affected by the western culture and methods. The western philosophies, observation, experience and research findings have started to dominate the ways of the medical world. The old ways of Ayurveda are now replaced by the allopathic medicines. Indian dermatologists, including dermatologists in Indore, Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities now have the proper knowledge and techniques to treat any disorder.
Different Fields in Dermatology-
Dermatology is bonded only with skin and skin related problems, but it is a vast subject. Presently, dermatology is a large industry and had spread all over the globe. Let’s look at some of the most interesting and known fields.
- Cosmetic Dermatology-
Cosmetic Surgeries are the leading branch of dermatology with worldwide experts and users. As a dermatologist one need to complete fellowship in surgical dermatology. There are different types of cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, blepharoplasty, face lifts etc. Still many dermatologists practice a limited procedure because of the absence of any formal guideline, but some offers both surgery and laser treatments. - Immuno Dermatology-
As the name suggest the Immuno Dermatology deals with the Permanent Skin Disorders like Lupus, Bullous Pemphigoid, Pemphigus Vulgaris and other skin disorders which comes in the permanent disorder category. The testing of immuno dermatology is very important for the diagnosis of other diseases that tend to affect mucous membranes, gastrointestinal, respiratory tracts and organs like skin. It is discovered that the delaying in diagnosis of such diseases is often because of some other diseases overlapping it. - Pediatric Dermatology-
This field of dermatology deals with complex diseases like Neonates, Hereditary Skin Diseases, Genodermatoses and many other difficulties. A physician can practice this after completing specialization in both Pediatric and Dermatology Residency. - Other fields of dermatology include the Dermatopathology which deals in the pathology related works. These people are specialist in pathology of the skin. Mohs Dermatology which surgery focused on diseases like skin cancer and deep tumor. Tele Dermatology, where telecommunication is used to exchange medical information. Dermato Epidemiology, it is the study of skin diseases on the population level.
Therapies and treatments offered by dermatologists-
As the technology advances new machines and techniques are born. In the field of dermatology, the technology and procedures have changed very much. Now dermatologists can easily diagnose and treat any disorder. Here are some of the therapies and treatments which are offered by the dermatologists.
Treatment for Skin Cancer, Cryo Surgery, Cosmetic Surgery, Laser Treatment, Chemical Peel, Tattoo Removal, Radiation Therapy and many more.
The science of dermatology has traveled and passed on for a long time and now with the help of modern-day technology it is helping billions. Don’t hesitate to get a treatment, consult with your doctor and proceed without a doubt.