A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, disorders, and diseases. There are various types of dermatologists, all of whom must be licensed and certified the governing body in their practicing region. Within each branch of specialized medicine, there are subspecialists. The number of recognized subspecialties in any medical profession, including dermatology, is determined the region’s licensing and governing board. The American Board of Dermatology, for example, recognizes three dermatology subspecialties: pediatric dermatology, dermatopathology, and procedural dermatology. Some of the same subspecialties, as well as new ones, are recognized the British Association of Dermatologists.
The requirements for obtaining special certification or licensure are the primary differences between the types of dermatologists. A specialized fellowship, internship, or a combination of education, training, and practical experience may be required. A dermatologist who meets the requirements of the governing body that issues subspecialty certification or licensure may be able to own or work in a specialized practice.
Pediatric dermatology is one type of dermatology subspecialty that is widely recognized many governing boards. This is a subspecialty of dermatology that focuses on children’s skin disorders and diseases. Congenital skin conditions, as well as those that develop during childhood or adolescence, may be treated these doctors. All standard dermatology requirements, as well as fellowship training and educational requirements, must be met in order to obtain this certification.
Another type of dermatology, known as procedural dermatology, requires specialized training and hands-on experience with surgical procedures. This can include laser procedures, but it’s not the same as cosmetic surgery. A procedural dermatologist is trained to treat skin diseases and disorders surgically.
Subspecialties in dermatology may also overlap. A dermatopathologist is a dermatologist who specializes in skin pathology. This doctor could also be a procedural dermatologist, which makes sense because determining the pathology of a skin condition is important for any surgical procedure used to treat it. Outside of the time and money spent meeting all educational and practical requirements, there is no reason why dermatologists should limit themselves to only one subspecialty. Finally, the number of certifications a dermatologist obtains is a matter of professional development and is often determined the doctor’s intended career path.