HX01 Avicenna: an influence on modern dermatology

Abstract

Medicine in the modern age has evolved significantly from its nascent roots, when practices were heavily influenced by cultural beliefs and pseudoscientific systems. Robert Willan is heralded as the father of modern dermatology, but the foundations of the specialty can arguably be traced back to Avicenna, or Ibn Sina. An eminent philosopher and physician of the Islamic Golden Age, ‘The Prince of Physicians’ was born in Ad 980 near Bukhara, the capital of the Samani Kingdom, in what is now Uzbekistan. Among his numerous accolades, he served as the Emir’s personal physician. Avicenna was a trailblazer of his era, penning the seminal Canon of Medicine, which became the definitive medical encyclopaedia from the 12th to the 17th century. William Osler described it as a ‘medical bible’. Avicenna’s intellectual prowess was evident from a young age: by 10, he had memorized the Qur’an, and by 16, he had a strong command of logic, metaphysics, mathematics and physics. The Canon of Medicine dedicated an entire chapter to dermatology, detailing conditions such as vitiligo, melasma, scabies, pediculosis, acne and psoriasis. Additionally, Avicenna discussed hair and nail disorders, including hair loss, lice infestations, nail splitting and pitting. He also addressed cosmetic concerns such as hair straightening and discolouring agents. In recognition of his contributions to medicine, a lunar crater was named after him in 1970. A narrative review exploring Persian medical sources, including Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine, examined nonpharmacological treatments for psoriasis. It identified humoral imbalance and dry skin dystemperament as key pathophysiological factors, alongside diet, physical activity, sleep, climate and mental state. Treatment, therefore, aimed to correct these imbalances: activities increasing dryness, such as excessive exercise and exposure to extreme temperatures, were discouraged, while proper nutrition, sleep and moderate exercise were emphasized. Notably, prolonged bathing was seen to induce dryness through sweating, whereas shorter baths were believed to have a moisturizing effect. Avicenna was arguably among the earliest pioneers of dermatology, laying the foundations for the specialty. His influence remains deeply embedded in medical practice, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.