Dermatology

The skin is the largest organ of the body, weighing approximately six pounds. Being the outer protective covering of the body, and being exposed to the environment, the skin is very vulnerable to growths, rashes, discolorations, cysts, burns, injuries, infections, and other disorders.

Dermatology is the study of skin diseases and conditions. A dermatologist treats disorders relating to the skin, hair, and nails. A dermatologist is a physician who has completed medical school, a year of hospital residency, and at least three more years of intensive medical training. At this time, a dermatologist is eligible to take the board certification examination offered by the American Board of Dermatologists. Currently, there are close to 8,500 board-certified dermatologists in the US.

Other physicians and specialists, also part of the treatment team, are involved in the prevention and treatment of skin disorders.

This page was last updated on: January 30, 2008.

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