Ethnic diversity in German dermatology textbooks: Does it exist and is it important? A mini review

Abstract

Recently published research has detected discrepancies in medical care as a result of skin color in Anglo-American countries. This was partly attributed to the fact that medical and dermatological specialist training textbooks were found to consist of examples and material that could be classified as more than 90 % white and fair skin (Fitzpatrick’s skin types I–III), including pictures in textbooks and scientific literature used as standard reference works. This systematic review reveals similar findings for German dermatological textbooks and consequently gives rise to the question of whether current medical training and practice in Germany adequately meets the needs of a population that is becoming ever more diverse.