Jean Darier and His Précis

Abstract

Background:

Many dermatologists know the name Jean Darier. Few are familiar with his accomplishments. The contemporary dermatology scene, with its emphasis on surgery and laser, is in danger of forgetting its roots in living gross pathology.

Objective:

To describe in summary form Darier's excellent dermatology text, Precis de Dermatologie, with particular emphasis on its organization and morphologic approach to skin disease.

Conclusion:

Knowledge in some areas of dermatology has increased manyfold since Darier's Précis was first published. This does not apply to current clinical descriptions of disease found in many current texts and journal articles. A study of Darier's Précis would be an excellent start to reinvigorate morphologic knowledge in dermatology.