Skin diseases are highly prevalent in the general population and represent one of the main causes of consultation for the general practitioner and other members of the health team. The skin also manifests as a sign of cryptic systemic diseases. In tropical regions of the world a high prevalence of skin diseases is in sharp contrast with the paucity or absence of specialist dermatologist services.

Poverty and disability are two main characteristics of the individual patient and the community affected by skin disease in the tropics. A number of quantitative and qualitative epidemiological studies as well as individual observations by clinicians support the aetiological role of poverty in skin conditions such as fungal diseases, leprosy, scabies and impetigo. The vicious circle is closed as chronic or recurrent skin disease results in further disability and loss of economic activity. Clear examples of …