Arab Board Dermatology Part 1 study plan

Map the major skin layers and adnexal structures to their core histologic features, then annotate a blank diagram from memory

Explain the immunologic mechanisms (innate and adaptive) underlying eczema and psoriasis, using a self-drawn flowchart

Distinguish the morphologic hallmarks of eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, acne, and rosacea in a written table

List the key pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and methotrexate

Describe the microbiologic characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Malassezia species relevant to skin disease

Compare and contrast the clinical features and management of atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis

Outline the stepwise treatment algorithm for acne vulgaris and rosacea, including mechanism of action for each drug class

Explain the genetic basis of at least three inherited skin disorders (e.g., ichthyosis, epidermolysis bullosa) and their clinical implications

Interpret dermoscopic patterns of melanocytic and non-melanocytic lesions using the two-step algorithm

Describe the histopathologic features of common bacterial, viral, and fungal skin infections

Explain the principles and interpretation of patch testing, including allergen selection and reading criteria

List the laboratory and molecular diagnostic tests used for sexually transmitted infections and mycobacterial skin diseases

Differentiate the clinical presentations and management of impetigo, cellulitis, erysipelas, and necrotizing fasciitis

Compare the features of herpes simplex, varicella-zoster, and human papillomavirus infections and their treatments

Classify autoimmune bullous diseases by level of blister formation and immunofluorescence findings

Outline the diagnostic criteria for lupus erythematosus and dermatomyositis, including key autoantibodies

Describe the pathophysiology and treatment options for melasma, vitiligo, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Explain the hair growth cycle and classify alopecias as scarring versus non-scarring with examples

Identify nail findings in systemic diseases and genodermatoses

Outline the clinical features and genetic inheritance of five common genodermatoses (e.g., neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis)

Differentiate benign, premalignant, and malignant skin tumors using clinical and dermoscopic criteria

Explain the ABCDE and 7-point checklist for melanoma detection and apply them to written case vignettes

Describe the histopathologic features and staging of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma

Recognize the cutaneous manifestations of vasculitis and classify vasculitides by vessel size

Compare the mechanisms, indications, and adverse effects of ablative versus non-ablative lasers and light devices

Outline the principles of Mohs micrographic surgery and its indications

Explain the pathophysiology of photoaging and the use of chemical peels and botulinum toxin in cosmetic dermatology

Identify common occupational contact allergens and describe the evaluation of occupational dermatitis

Classify cutaneous adverse drug reactions by mechanism and clinical pattern (e.g., maculopapular, bullous, pustular)

Explain the pathophysiology and management of severe drug reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Review high-yield basic science concepts (immunology, pharmacology, microbiology) through spaced repetition

Integrate diagnostic and therapeutic principles across all domains using mixed-topic practice questions