Communication
Discussing a skin lesion with a dermatologist is similar to discussing an abnormal ECG with a cardiologist, the abnormality requires correct description in order to receive appropriate advice.
Common dermatological terms and examples are listed below.
Lesion: A single area of altered skin.
It may be solitary or multiple.
Rash: A widespread eruption.
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History
Key questions include: the time of onset, duration, location, evolution, and symptoms of the rash or lesion.
Additional information on family history, occupational exposures, comorbidities, medications, and social or psychological factors is extremely helpful.
In suspected drug induced rash, detailed history of medications (including over the count.
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Introduction
The skin is the largest organ in the body.
There are hundreds of skin diseases, many present with (often similar looking) rashes.
Diagnosis of skin conditions can be a challenging task for non-dermatologists.
Like most investigations, skin specific investigations e.g. dermatopathology and biopsy, are done to ratify the clinician’s provisional diagn.
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Physical Examination
The patient should always be examined in a good light and, if possible, with a magnifying lens.
The physical examination includes visual inspection and palpation of the skin.
The morphology, arrangement and distribution of the lesions are essential to note.
In addition, colour, consistency and the number of lesions presented should be recorded.
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What changes have been made to the dermatology curriculum?
The additions to the new curriculum include:
- teledermatology
- dermoscopy
- skin of colour dermatology
In addition to the changes to reflect the curriculum, there have been many exciting developments in dermatology since the last update, which need to be included in the learning sessions.
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What is the dermatology education section?
This section is dedicated to providing dermatologists, healthcare professionals and medical students with an up-to-date resource of guidelines, regulations and education.
