Dermatological History and Examination
December 2004
in “
Medicine
”
TLDR A thorough history and examination are crucial for diagnosing skin diseases, which affect up to a third of people. This includes details about skin lesions, medication, general health, lifestyle, family, and contacts, as well as examining the rash, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. Changes in hair and nails can also indicate other medical and skin disorders.
In 2004, S Narayan's document "Dermatological history and examination" emphasized the significance of comprehensive history and examination in diagnosing skin diseases, which affect 25-33% of the population. It stated that in 2002, 10 out of 1000 UK patients in general practice reported persistent skin complaints. The document underscored the need to inquire about the duration, location, and symptoms of skin lesions, medication history, general medical history, occupational and recreational history, family history, and contact history. It also stressed the importance of examining the rash's distribution and morphology, and the hair, nails, and mucous membranes. The document discussed disorders of hair and hair growth, including alopecia and hirsutism, and their potential causes, and noted that nail changes can offer valuable insights into associated medical and skin disorders.