• Dermatology is evolving from a discipline based on morphologic observation and empiric treatments to a more creative, active medical speciality that emphasizes specific treatments based on a growing collection of cellular and molecular information about skin and skin disease. Sound, respectable work is being done. We should do whatever is possible to encourage further productivity. A recent meeting sponsored by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization provided a forum for the scientistdermatologist to summarize and survey what is known about the molecular basis of the function of skin and pathophysiologic disorders of skin. The meeting necessarily included articles on inflammation, connective tissue, immunology, photobiology, and other disciplines woven into dermatology research. We are beginning to understand the integument, and our modest success shows that much more is to be done and that we are enlisting impressive tools and good people to pursue the work.
(Arch Dermatol 1981;117:743-745)