Skin Conditions and Treatments (Dermatology)

Dermatology Glossary

Dermatology Glossary

Acne in Teenagers
Teenage Acne

Mild Acne
Mild Acne

Moderate Acne
Moderate Acne

Acne and Diet

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This list of skin conditions and treatments includes dermatologist-recommended content, authored by trusted sources, including dermatologists, and professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Dermatology.

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What is a Dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, such as acne, aging skin, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, and skin cancer. Many dermatologists also perform cosmetic procedures, such as botulinum toxin (Botox), dermal fillers (Restylane) and laser resurfacing, to maintain a youthful appearance.

Professional Dermatology Organizations

The American Academy of Dermatology is the largest, most influential and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of over 16,000, it represents virtually all practicing dermatologists in the United States. The Academy is committed to excellence in patient care, medical and public education, research, professionalism and member service and support.

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery represents 4,700 dermatologists that are trained to treat skin and soft tissue with both medically necessary and cosmetic surgical and non-surgical methods.

Dermatology Specialties

Cosmetic dermatology is a subspecialty of dermatology. Many dermatologists are trained during their residency on the use of Botox, dermal fillers, and laser surgery. Others obtain additional training by completing a fellowship in surgical dermatology. Most dermatologists limit their cosmetic practice to minimally invasive procedures, but others may perform minor cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction, blepharoplasty, and face lifts.

A dermatopathologist is a pathologist who specializes in the pathology of skin. Skin biopsies are sent to a dermatopathologist for microscopic examination and other tests.

Mohs Surgeons are dermatologists who have gained additional training in Mohs Surgery. Mohs Surgery focuses on the excision of skin cancers using a tissue-sparing technique that allows assessment of the tumor and its removal during the procedure.

Pediatric Dermatologists are dermatologists who have completed training in pediatrics and dermatology. They tend to focus on the complex skin diseases of newborns, hereditary skin diseases, and common pediatric skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, and hemangiomas.

Patient Advocacy and Research Organizations

The National Eczema Association improves the health and quality of life for individuals with eczema through research, support, and education. The National Eczema Association is a national, patient-oriented organization, which is governed by a Board of directors and guided by a Scientific Advisory Committee comprised of physicians and scientists who donate their time and expertise.

The National Psoriasis Foundation has grown to be the largest psoriasis patient advocacy organization in the world. Located in Portland, Ore., the Psoriasis Foundation is run by a dedicated staff and governed by a lay Board of Trustees, all of whom have had their lives impacted by psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. We are proud to be the voice for the millions of Americans affected by psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

The National Rosacea Society (NRS) is the world's largest organization dedicated to improving the lives of the estimated 14 million Americans who suffer from this widespread but poorly understood disorder. The National Rosacea Society has made a difference in the way rosacea patients are treated and the way this widespread disorder is perceived and understood.

The Skin Cancer Foundation has set the standard for educating the public and the medical profession about skin cancer, its prevention by means of sun protection, and the need for early detection and prompt, effective treatment. It is the only international organization devoted solely to combating the world's most common cancer, now occurring at epidemic levels. More than a million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States every year. The Foundation's mission is to decrease the incidence of the disease by means of public and professional education, medical training, and research.

© 2010 Vivacare. Last updated June 23, 2010.

This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of your physician or health care professional. Communicate promptly with your physician or other health care professional with any health-related questions or concerns.

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