Seborrheic dermatitis |
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DefinitionSeborrheic dermatitis is a common, inflammatory skin condition that causes flaky, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas such as the scalp, face or inside the ear. It can occur with or without reddened skin. Cradle cap is the term used when seborrheic dermatitis affects the scalp of infants. Alternative NamesDandruff; Seborrheic eczema; Cradle cap CausesThe exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown. Doctors think it may be due to a combination hormone levels, weakened immune system, lack of certain nutrients, or nervous system problems. Irritation from a yeast called Malassezia may also lead to this condition. Seborrheic dermatitis appears to run in families. Risk factors include:
SymptomsSeborrheic dermatitis can occur on different body areas. Usually, it forms where the skin is oily or greasy. Common areas include the scalp, eyebrows, eyelids, creases of the nose, lips, behind the ears, in the outer ear, and middle of the chest. In general, symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis include:
Exams and TestsDiagnosis is based on appearance and location of the skin lesions. Further tests, such as skin biopsy, are rarely needed. TreatmentFlaking and dryness can be treated with over-the-counter dandruff or medicated shampoos. You can buy these at the drugstore without a prescription. Look for a product that says on the label it treats seborrheic dermatitis. Such products contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide. Use the shampoo according to label instructions. For severe cases, your healthcare provider will likely prescribe a shampoo or lotion containing a stronger dose of selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, cicloprox, sodium sulfacetamide, or corticosteroid. A cream that contains an immunomodulator, such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, may be prescribed. This medicine suppresses the immune system to treat inflammation. It is thought that sunlight improves seborrheic dermatitis. In some persons, the condition gets better in the summer, especially after outdoor activities. Outlook (Prognosis)Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic (life-long) condition that comes and goes and can be controlled with treatment. Severity of seborrheic dermatitis can be lessened by controlling risk factors and paying careful attention to skin care. Possible ComplicationsThe condition may result in:
When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall for an appointment with your health care provider if seborrheic dermatitis symptoms do not respond to self-care or over-the-counter treatments. Also call if patches of seborrheic dermatitis drain fluid or pus, form crusts, or become very red or painful. PreventionThe severity of seborrheic dermatitis can be lessened by controlling the risk factors and by paying careful attention to skin care. ReferencesWeidman AK, Williams JDL, Coulson I. Seborrheic eczema. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Berth-Jones J, Coulson I, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014:chap 219. |