Dermatology
Introduction:
Dermatology is a part of medical science that deals with the skin and its diseases. People of different ages are concerned about their skin, beauty and complex and due to this, there is a huge demand for well-trained dermatologists. An individual who practices dermatology is called as a dermatologist. Dermatology study is related to physiology and pathology of the nails, hair, and skin in order to diagnose the problem and provide treatment according to the issues such as eczema, chemical peel, acne, fungal infection, cryosurgery, birthmarks and skin cancer.
Dermatologists utilize surgery, medication, and radiotherapy to treat these disease and conditions. Candidates interested in practicing dermatology career must train as a registered nurse i.e (RN) and must complete his/her training and education in dermatology. Some dermatologists play a major role in advising their patients of benefits and disadvantages of various skin care events. A dermatologist might also perform a research on causes of physical deformities or treatments for skin irritation, skin cancer etc.
Skin disease is very common, accounting for approximately 15 per cent of GP consultations, and the number of possible dermatological diagnoses has been estimated at 4000, each of which can present in different ways. In secondary care, dermatology offers a wide variety of case mix in all age groups from mild complaints to severe, life-limiting inflammatory disorders.
Dermatologists treat conditions such as:
- Skin cancer
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Dermatitis
- Acne
Most dermatologists are skin surgeons as well as physicians. Skin surgery is an important part of practice, with most dermatologists having at least one theater list per week. However, they refer patients for laser therapy to laser specialist surgeons. Within the hospital setting, dermatologists are often consulted with regards to patients under the care of other specialists. They also jointly manage patients.
Personality:
A dermatologist needs an excellent understanding of the following:
- The skin and subcutaneous tissue anatomy
- Cutaneous microanatomy and biology
- Clinical pharmacology
- Basic immunology
- Basic radiation physics and radiobiology, and basic laser physics
They also need:
- An understanding of the common association between skin disease and other disorders typically within the realm of General Medicine
- To be able to perform procedures including biopsies, cryotherapy and the removal of skin lesions
- Good interpersonal and communicative skills with people of all ages
- Empathy to counsel patients who suffer psychological stress from their visible disease.
Professional courses, Duration, and Eligibility Criteria: List of Courses:
- Certification Course in Cosmetic Dermatology
- Diploma in Dermatology (2 Years)
- Bachelor of Science in Dermatology (3 Years)
- Master of Science in Clinical Dermatology
- Master of Science of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology
- Post Graduate Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology (2 Year)
- Doctor of Medicine in Dermatology & Venereology (3 Year)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Dermatology & Venereology (3 Year)
UG:
For admission in a bachelor’s degree, the candidate must have passed the higher secondary school certificate (12th Std.) examination with science subjects such as biology, maths, and chemistry. The duration of the bachelor degree course is 3 years.
PG:
The eligibility criteria for pursuing a master’s degree are holding a graduation degree with science subjects science subject such as biology, maths, and chemistry. The duration for master's degree and post-graduate diploma course is 2 years.
Some of the sub-specialized fields of dermatology are:
- Dermatopathology
- Teledermatology
- Mohs surgery
- Immunodermatology
- Cosmetic dermatology
- Pediatric dermatology
Career Prospects:
There are lots of career opportunities in the field of dermatology. A graduate in dermatology can seek career option in following areas such as in nursing homes, private or govt. hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries. Professionals in this career can also opt for teaching jobs in universities and colleges.
A graduate student working as a private practitioner or in clinic helps them to gain the confidence and revenue. Experienced dermatologists can pursue rewarding careers abroad as the demand is increasing tremendously. A graduate professional can also apply for jobs in foreign countries and work there.
Remuneration:
Dermatologists make remuneration somewhere between Rs.1.5 lacs – Rs.3 lacs per annum in the initial stage and go up to Rs. 5 lacs per annum after gaining some experience. Their promotion prospects include becoming the medical director or department head etc. In government hospitals, the income is mostly based on the grade or pay scale. Although dermatologists working in a private hospital also earn good remuneration. Dermatologists can make more money by having his /her own private clinic.
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