Dermatologists treat all skin problems, even those involving the genitals.

And this is precisely the object of venereology, a little-known specialty of dermatology.

Explanations with the doctor Flora Fisher, guest on Monday of the show Sans Rendez-vous on Europe 1. 

Acne, moles or eczema are pathologies regularly treated by dermatologists.

But they are also the first to go to see for venereal diseases.

Guest of the program

Sans Rendez-vous

on Europe 1, dermatologist Flora Fisher lifts the veil on venology, a discipline often unknown to patients. 

Venereology is in no way the study of veins and even less that of revered people.

It is a crucial discipline of dermatology: venereal diseases are none other than sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

And it is to your dermatologist that you have to turn when the first symptoms appear.

A historical discipline

According to dermatologist Flora Fischer, it is no accident that we should turn to these practitioners.

She explains: "At the beginning, dermatology was based a lot on syphilography, that is to say syphilis and venereal diseases".

Today, "the study of venereal disease is fully integrated into dermatology," she says. 

STIs can be caused by viruses, bacteria, yeasts, protozoa or ectoparasites.

Among the best known are HIV, chlamydia and scabies.

>> Find all of Sans rendez-vous in replay and podcast here

When should you consult?

But it's not uncommon for patients not to know where to turn.

Diseases transmitted through sexual intercourse are primarily manifested by lesions of the skin.

There may also be oozing or urethral or vaginal discharge.

Clearly, if your private parts are itching, if pimples appear, then it is best to consult a dermatologist.

Can STIs be treated?

After a few additional examinations, the dermatologist-venereologist can make a diagnosis.

And it all depends on the latter.

Certain sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia or gonorrhea for example, can be treated with suitable antibiotics.

On the other hand, the practitioner can only limit the symptoms with regard to HIV or herpes.

However, using a condom is still the best way to avoid venereal disease.