Infestation and infections
of the skin: The dermatovenereology specialist has a firm
grounding in the biology and epidemiology of important skin pathogens,
as well as close familiarity with newer medications against pathogenic
fungi, herpes virus, retroviruses including HIV infection and other
relevant organisms. Molecular biological techniques for the diagnosis
of Borrelia and mycobacterial infections, and expertise in the management
of drug resistant bacterial, parasitic and viral strains are also
a dermatological responsibility.
Oncology and ionising radiation therapy: Pigmented lesions,
cutaneous lymphoma and all other malignant skin lesions are properly
diagnosed and treated by the dermatologist, who should also be involved
in the genetic and flow cytometric analysis of mononuclear cells and
in the selection of therapeutic options including radiotherapy. Local
surgical excision and, provided the dermatologist has received special
training, micrographic surgery should also fall within the scope of
dermatology. In the near future the dermatologist will also be involved
in the immuno-therapy of cancer (e.g. cytokines, dendritic cells,
genetically engineered cancer vaccines etc.). |
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Immuno-dermatology:
Most auto-immune connective tissue diseases involve the skin as a
major target organ. The dermatologist will be familiar with the cutaneous
and systemic features of these disorders. Important clues to their
diagnosis and prognosis can be obtained from the skin, and the patient
will receive better care from an integrated approach in partnership
with the rheumatologist, renal physician and other specialists.
Inflammatory and papulosquamous skin diseases: The management
of psoriasis, infantile eczema, adult atopic dermatitis and other
papulosquamous skin disorders should be the responsibility of the
dermatologist, who will be familiar with more advanced forms of treatment
including immunotherapy modalities, vitamin D analogues, photo-chemotherapy
and a range of new, high potency topical therapies. |
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