Metaphoric or analogical terminology is common in clinical dermatology, dermoscopy and dermatopathology.
Metaphoric language in dermatology has been criticized for a perceived lack of clear definition and specificity, and non-metaphoric (descriptive) terms and diagnostic algorithms have attempted to be constructed.
Metaphors are pervasive in human language and appear to be deeply rooted in our conceptual frameworks.
The utility of metaphors in dermoscopy is discussed, with particular reference to research in the cognitive sciences.
