[Dermatology for general physicians]

20% of the population suffers from a dermatologic disease. Most patients with skin problems first try a self-medication or seek the general practitioner.That is the reason why general practitioners should have some knowledge in dermatology. Most patients with skin problems attending the family physician have eczema, infections of the skin or benign skin tumors. Most common prescribed dermatologic medications are antihistaminics, anti-microbial agents and topical steroids.The skin is a boundary to the inside and to the outside. Skin diseases can lead to secondary problems in internal organs and on the other side disorders of internal organs can produce typical skin lesions which can be a clue for diagnosis.