[Perspectives for dermatology in the 21st century]

During the last decades dermatology has been profoundly transformed from its descriptive origin into an important part of modern medicine and biosciences. Areas of interest and expertise in the future will likely be focused on major topics on clinical dermatology (psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, skin infections including those sexually transmitted), dermatologic oncology (squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma), gene technology in biopharmacy and dermatopharmacology, and also the areas dealing with the aging of the skin and its appendages (dermatologic endocrinology, cosmetic dermatology). Increasing knowledge in dermatology is not only relevant for treating skin disease but also for helping our patients to maintain healthy and appealing skin, thus improving their requirements for beautification and their quality of life. While this is an important aim, it should not become our main task. Overall, the perspectives for dermatology are promising; in the end, its further development will depend on how modern societies will recognize its significance and reward its efforts.