Dermatology is a fascinating subject. This is a statement you might expect from a dermatologist, but what is the justification? It is a highly clinical specialty and sophisticated techniques of diagnosis are very much of secondary importance compared with clinical skills. The skin is important not only as an organ with vital physiological functions but also as a flag by which we communicate with the outside world. A perfect skin is desired by all, and upon this wish is based the multi-million pound cosmetics industry. Skin disease therefore places a strain on sufferers out of proportion to...