Dermatology Made Simple : Definition and Approach to History Taking in Dermatology

Dermatology

This Is a branch of medicine that deals with study,pathogenesis and management of variety of diseases of the skin.

History Taking Approach

Where did the skin lesion/rash orginally start.

Did it affect other parts of the body subsequently?.

Duration:

How long has the rash/lesion been present.

What are the symptoms ? eg burning,dryness,itching etc.

Progression:
Is it getting worse/improving/staying the same with time.

Associated Factors:

Some rashes/lesions are associated with underlying medical disorders such as Coeliac Disease associated 

with Dermatitis Herpetiformis.

Aggravating/relieving Factors:

Any thing that makes them worse e.g sunlight aggravating Sunburn /SLE.

Any medication or factor that relieves the lesion?

Past History

Any previous episodes of such lesions?

Family History

Any other members of family having similar problems.

Any friends/colleagues affected eg Scabies.

Prescriptions taken

Concerns and affect of the rash on the affected person