Dermatology: Definition, Etymology & Scope of Practice

Dermatology derives from Greek derma (skin) + logia (study of). It is the medical specialty focused on the skin, its structure, functions, diseases, and treatments.

Synonyms & Related Terms

• Cutaneous medicine
• Dermatology-venereology (historical, includes STDs)
• Skin science / cutaneous biology (academic contexts)

"Dermatology" remains the standard clinical term worldwide.