Dermatology << `dur` muh TOL uh jee >> is the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of skin diseases. Physicians who specialize in this field are called dermatologists.
Dermatologists diagnose and treat all forms of skin cancer. Other skin ailments treated by dermatologists include blisters, burns, infections, tumors, and warts. Dermatologists also treat many children, teenagers, and adults who have acne. In addition, dermatologists are trained to recognize changes in the skin that indicate a disease in other parts of the body.
Dermatology includes research on the structure and function of skin. Some dermatologists perform surgery to correct certain conditions. Others practice cosmetic dermatology, using various techniques to remove skin wrinkles and improve appearance.
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