Dermatological emergencies: What the term encompasses and key features in their diagnosis

Dermatology is traditionally considered to be an outpatient-centeredspecialty, with minimal emergencies and mortality. However, recently, several dermatological conditions have been described that may present as emergencies, subsequently resulting in mortality if left untreated. These disorders range from inflammatory conditions to infective conditions and some dermatosurgical situations, which may result in complete breakdown of skin function, called acute skin failure. These dermatological emergencies need to be diagnosed at the earliest stage, as prompt administration of adequate treatment may be life saving.