Basic principles Chapter 1 Microanatomy of the skin Introduction Chapter 2 Derivatives of the skin Hair Nails Sebaceous glands Sweat glands Other structures in skin Chapter 3 Physiology of the skin Skin barrier function Keratinocyte maturation Melanocyte function Hair growth Thermoregulation Chapter 4 Biochemistry of the skin Keratins Melanins Collagens Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) Skin surface secretions Subcutaneous fat Hormones and the skin Chapter 5 Immunology of the skin Hypersensitivity reactions and the skin Chapter 6 Molecular genetics and the skin The human chromosomes Forms of inheritance Gene therapy Chapter 7 Terminology of skin lesions Macule Papule Nodule Bulla Vesicle Pustule Cyst Wheal Plaque Scale Ulcer Chapter 8 Taking a history Presenting complaint Past medical history Social and occupational history Family history Drug history Chapter 9 Examining the skin Distribution of eruption or lesions Morphology of individual lesions Nails, hair and mucous membranes General examination Special techniques and assessment of disease morbidity Chapter 10 Practical clinic procedures Diagnostic procedures Therapeutic procedures Chapter 11 Basics of medical therapy Topical therapy Diseases Special topics in dermatology Index