Diagnosing Dermatological Disorders: Expanding your knowledge of diagnosis and treatment.

The skin can be the site of numerous primary dermatoses. It can also reflect internal conditions, eg, metabolic, infectious, neoplastic, and immunological disorders. The minimal requirements for diagnosis include the knowledge of basic pathological reaction patterns, the natural history and clinical appearance of common skin conditions, and the major internal and external correlations. A detailed history and examination is essential. Referral to a dermatologist should be considered in undiagnosed or rapidly changing conditions.