HX01 Avicenna: An Influence on Modern Dermatology
June 2025
in “
British Journal of Dermatology
”
TLDR Avicenna's work greatly shaped modern dermatology.
Avicenna, a prominent philosopher and physician of the Islamic Golden Age, significantly influenced modern dermatology through his seminal work, the Canon of Medicine. This encyclopedic text, which served as a medical authority from the 12th to the 17th century, included a dedicated chapter on dermatology, covering conditions like vitiligo, melasma, and psoriasis, as well as hair and nail disorders. Avicenna's approach to treatment emphasized correcting humoral imbalances and managing factors such as diet, exercise, and climate. His pioneering contributions laid the groundwork for dermatology, and his legacy continues to impact medical practices today.