Forensic Dermatology: An Integral Subspecialty of Dermatology. Introducing a New Section in Clinics in Dermatology

Forensic dermatology is not only a worldwide phenomenon but also an important subspecialty of both forensic medicine and dermatology. It encompasses traditional forensic dermatology (by aiding in establishing the cause and manner of death of decedents) and clinical forensic dermatology (by assessing live victims of abuse and neglect, human trafficking, and torture). Forensic dermatology assists in the legal and criminal investigation by carefully examining the skin, mucosa, hair, and nails and accurately assessing the findings. The forensic dermatologist may use the forensic dermatology expert analytical report to summarize not only the observations but also the assessment of their evaluation as an expert witness during a trial. Collaboration, documentation, and education are the pillars of forensic dermatology. In order to provide a forum for the advancement of knowledge in forensic dermatology, a new section dedicated to this field of medicine has been added to Clinics in Dermatology.