Skin Disease or Dermatology - Overview

Dermatosis is the generic term given to any disease of the skin. Plurally it is referred to as 'dermatoses'. This term should not be confused with dermatitis, which is an inflammation of the skin.

The skin is made up of the outer epidermis, the underlying dermis, and the basement layer, called the hypodermis. The skin helps us to regulate the body temperature and also to sense our surroundings. The Skin acts as an eliminating organ and is, infact, the largest eliminating organ of the body. Through its pores, the skin excretes several toxins, allergens and other unwanted substances. It weighs about 6-9 pounds and boasts of a surface area of two square yards.

Skin disorders are usually related to the epidermal layer of skin. This layer serves as a barrier to infection -causing agents. Skin diseases which occur secondary to systemic diseases are not included among dermatosis.

Skin diseases are usually caused by infection with viral or bacterial organisms. Another reason for skin diseases is that it can occur due the imbalance in the physiological condition of the skin. Sometimes chemical agents may be responsible for skin diseases and allergies. If there is prolonged contact or contact with excess amount of strong chemicals, it can even result in poisoning. On the other hand, use of appropriate personal protection like gloves or overalls can help protect from developing skin ailments.

Some of the common skin diseases or dermatoses include Acne, Scabies, Warts, Sunburn, Eczema, Psoriasis, Fifth disease or ‘slapped face disease’, Tinea, Pruritis, Herpes, Ulcers, Impetigo, vitiligo and Skin cancer.

Skin conditions are many in number and they can be broadly categorized into the following groups -

a) Inflammatory skin disorders

b) Viral skin problems

c) Bacterial skin problems

d) Fungal skin problems

e) Pigmentation disorders

f) Skin cancers

g) Rare skin diseases