Dermatology: Fundamentals of Practice

328 pagesEndorsed by the Royal College of General Practitioners, London, UK, for postgraduate dermatology training.Helps the physician demonstrate a reasoned approach to the diagnosis of skin symptoms using history, examination, incremental investigations and referral.Helps with timely appropriate referrals on behalf of patients to specialist services, especially to rapid access pigmented lesion (sometimes called skin cancer, mole or melanoma) clinics.Describes the side effects of common medicines used to prevent and treat other conditions that may cause skin problems.Describes the rationale for restricting certain investigations and treatments in the management of skin problems e.g. prescribing of retinoids, access to phototherapy.Helps the physician appreciate the importance of the social and psychological impact of skin problems on the patient's quality of life, including, for example, the effects of disfigurement or sleep deprivation as a result of itching.Gives advice regarding the successful co-ordination of care with other primary care health professionals, dermatologists and other appropriate specialists, leading to effective and appropriate acute and chronic disease management including prevention and rehabilitation.Promotes skin well-being by explaining health promotion and disease prevention strategies appropriately including sun protection, occupational health advice and hand care.Helps physicians empower patients to look after their own health and take responsibility for managing their skin problems.Helps physicians empower patients with chronic skin problems to manage the effects of disfigurement.