The correct definition of venereology is "the doctrine of venereal diseases". It is a branch of dermatology. Since the symptoms of most classical venereal diseases appear on the surface of the skin, the dermatologist is also an expert in this field.

In general, this refers to all diseases transmitted through sexual contact. Triggers of these diseases can be fungi, bacteria, parasites, protozoa or viruses. In some diseases, in addition to sexual transmission, an infection, e.g. by blood, is also possible.