Seborrhoeic dermatitis: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox medical condition | |||
| name = Seborrhoeic dermatitis | |||
| image = [[File:Seborrhoeic_dermatitis_highres.jpg|250px]] | |||
| caption = Seborrhoeic dermatitis on the scalp | |||
| field = [[Dermatology]] | |||
| synonyms = Seborrheic eczema, seborrheic psoriasis, dandruff (when on the scalp) | |||
| symptoms = [[Redness]], [[scaly skin]], [[itching]], [[dandruff]] | |||
| complications = [[Secondary infection]] | |||
| onset = [[Adolescence]] or [[adulthood]] | |||
| duration = [[Chronic]] | |||
| causes = [[Malassezia]] yeast, [[genetic]] factors, [[environmental]] factors | |||
| risks = [[Parkinson's disease]], [[HIV/AIDS]], [[stress]], [[cold weather]] | |||
| diagnosis = [[Clinical diagnosis]] | |||
| differential = [[Psoriasis]], [[atopic dermatitis]], [[rosacea]] | |||
| treatment = [[Antifungal]] creams, [[corticosteroids]], [[medicated shampoos]] | |||
| medication = [[Ketoconazole]], [[ciclopirox]], [[selenium sulfide]] | |||
| frequency = Common | |||
}} | |||
'''Seborrhoeic dermatitis''', also known as '''seborrhoea''', is a long-term [[skin disorder]] characterized by red, scaly, greasy, itchy, and inflamed skin. Areas of the skin rich in oil-producing ([[sebaceous]]) glands are often affected, including the scalp, face, and chest. The condition can result in social or self-esteem problems. In babies, when the scalp is primarily involved, it is called '''cradle cap'''. '''Dandruff''' is a milder form of the condition without inflammation. | '''Seborrhoeic dermatitis''', also known as '''seborrhoea''', is a long-term [[skin disorder]] characterized by red, scaly, greasy, itchy, and inflamed skin. Areas of the skin rich in oil-producing ([[sebaceous]]) glands are often affected, including the scalp, face, and chest. The condition can result in social or self-esteem problems. In babies, when the scalp is primarily involved, it is called '''cradle cap'''. '''Dandruff''' is a milder form of the condition without inflammation. | ||
[[File:Seborrhoeic dermatitis Seboroicka dermatitida.png|thumb|Seborrhoeic dermatitis Seboroicka dermatitida]] | [[File:Seborrhoeic dermatitis Seboroicka dermatitida.png|left|thumb|Seborrhoeic dermatitis Seboroicka dermatitida]] | ||
[[File:Seborea P 20211015 105358.jpg|thumb|Seborea P 20211015 105358]] | [[File:Seborea P 20211015 105358.jpg|left|thumb|Seborea P 20211015 105358]] | ||
== Signs and symptoms == | == Signs and symptoms == | ||
The primary symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis include: | The primary symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis include: | ||
* Redness | * Redness | ||
* Scaling | * Scaling | ||
| Line 18: | Line 36: | ||
* Groin | * Groin | ||
* Armpits | * Armpits | ||
== Causes == | == Causes == | ||
The exact cause of seborrhoeic dermatitis is unknown. However, several factors may contribute to its development, including: | The exact cause of seborrhoeic dermatitis is unknown. However, several factors may contribute to its development, including: | ||
| Line 26: | Line 43: | ||
* Overgrowth of the yeast [[Malassezia]] on the skin | * Overgrowth of the yeast [[Malassezia]] on the skin | ||
* Changes in skin barrier function | * Changes in skin barrier function | ||
== Diagnosis == | == Diagnosis == | ||
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is typically diagnosed based on the appearance of the skin and the areas affected. A physical examination and medical history may be used to rule out other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, or allergic contact dermatitis. | Seborrhoeic dermatitis is typically diagnosed based on the appearance of the skin and the areas affected. A physical examination and medical history may be used to rule out other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, or allergic contact dermatitis. | ||
== Treatment == | == Treatment == | ||
There is no cure for seborrhoeic dermatitis, but treatments can help control symptoms and manage flare-ups. Common treatments include: | There is no cure for seborrhoeic dermatitis, but treatments can help control symptoms and manage flare-ups. Common treatments include: | ||
* Topical antifungal medications, such as [[ketoconazole]] or [[clotrimazole]] | * Topical antifungal medications, such as [[ketoconazole]] or [[clotrimazole]] | ||
* Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching | * Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching | ||
| Line 39: | Line 53: | ||
* Moisturizers to help with dry, scaly skin | * Moisturizers to help with dry, scaly skin | ||
* Lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding harsh soaps or skin care products, can also help manage seborrhoeic dermatitis. | * Lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding harsh soaps or skin care products, can also help manage seborrhoeic dermatitis. | ||
== Prognosis == | == Prognosis == | ||
Seborrhoeic dermatitis typically follows a chronic, relapsing course. Symptoms may improve with treatment but often recur periodically. | Seborrhoeic dermatitis typically follows a chronic, relapsing course. Symptoms may improve with treatment but often recur periodically. | ||
== Epidemiology == | == Epidemiology == | ||
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common skin condition affecting people of all ages. It is most prevalent in infants under three months old and adults aged 30-60 years. | Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common skin condition affecting people of all ages. It is most prevalent in infants under three months old and adults aged 30-60 years. | ||
== Prevention == | == Prevention == | ||
Preventing seborrhoeic dermatitis can be challenging due to the unknown exact cause and the chronic nature of the condition. However, some measures may help reduce the frequency or severity of flare-ups: | Preventing seborrhoeic dermatitis can be challenging due to the unknown exact cause and the chronic nature of the condition. However, some measures may help reduce the frequency or severity of flare-ups: | ||
* Maintaining a regular skincare routine with gentle cleansers and moisturizers | * Maintaining a regular skincare routine with gentle cleansers and moisturizers | ||
* Avoiding harsh soaps, fragrances, or skin care products that can irritate the skin | * Avoiding harsh soaps, fragrances, or skin care products that can irritate the skin | ||
| Line 55: | Line 65: | ||
== Complications == | == Complications == | ||
Although seborrhoeic dermatitis is generally not a serious condition, it can cause social or self-esteem issues due to its visible nature and the chronic itching and discomfort associated with it. Additionally, the constant scratching can lead to skin damage, infections, or scarring. | Although seborrhoeic dermatitis is generally not a serious condition, it can cause social or self-esteem issues due to its visible nature and the chronic itching and discomfort associated with it. Additionally, the constant scratching can lead to skin damage, infections, or scarring. | ||
== Society and culture == | == Society and culture == | ||
Seborrhoeic dermatitis can have a negative impact on a person's quality of life, particularly if the condition is severe or affects highly visible areas of the body. It may lead to social isolation, depression, or anxiety in some individuals. Public awareness and understanding of the condition are essential for reducing stigma and promoting effective management strategies. | Seborrhoeic dermatitis can have a negative impact on a person's quality of life, particularly if the condition is severe or affects highly visible areas of the body. It may lead to social isolation, depression, or anxiety in some individuals. Public awareness and understanding of the condition are essential for reducing stigma and promoting effective management strategies. | ||
== Research == | == Research == | ||
Research into the causes, prevention, and treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis is ongoing. Current areas of focus include investigating the role of the immune system and genetic factors in the development of the condition, as well as exploring new treatments to help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. | Research into the causes, prevention, and treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis is ongoing. Current areas of focus include investigating the role of the immune system and genetic factors in the development of the condition, as well as exploring new treatments to help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. | ||
== Summary == | == Summary == | ||
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that can cause significant discomfort and have a negative impact on a person's quality of life. Further research into the exact causes and most effective treatments is necessary to improve the lives of those affected by this condition. Increasing public awareness and understanding of seborrhoeic dermatitis can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek appropriate medical care and management strategies. | Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that can cause significant discomfort and have a negative impact on a person's quality of life. Further research into the exact causes and most effective treatments is necessary to improve the lives of those affected by this condition. Increasing public awareness and understanding of seborrhoeic dermatitis can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek appropriate medical care and management strategies. | ||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
* [[Dandruff]] | * [[Dandruff]] | ||
| Line 73: | Line 78: | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
{{Reflist}} | {{Reflist}} | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
* [[DermNet NZ]]: [https://dermnetnz.org/topics/seborrhoeic-dermatitis/ Seborrhoeic dermatitis] | * [[DermNet NZ]]: [https://dermnetnz.org/topics/seborrhoeic-dermatitis/ Seborrhoeic dermatitis] | ||
Latest revision as of 20:53, 8 April 2025
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC
| Seborrhoeic dermatitis | |
|---|---|
| |
| Synonyms | Seborrheic eczema, seborrheic psoriasis, dandruff (when on the scalp) |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Redness, scaly skin, itching, dandruff |
| Complications | Secondary infection |
| Onset | Adolescence or adulthood |
| Duration | Chronic |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Malassezia yeast, genetic factors, environmental factors |
| Risks | Parkinson's disease, HIV/AIDS, stress, cold weather |
| Diagnosis | Clinical diagnosis |
| Differential diagnosis | Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea |
| Prevention | N/A |
| Treatment | Antifungal creams, corticosteroids, medicated shampoos |
| Medication | Ketoconazole, ciclopirox, selenium sulfide |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | Common |
| Deaths | N/A |
Seborrhoeic dermatitis, also known as seborrhoea, is a long-term skin disorder characterized by red, scaly, greasy, itchy, and inflamed skin. Areas of the skin rich in oil-producing (sebaceous) glands are often affected, including the scalp, face, and chest. The condition can result in social or self-esteem problems. In babies, when the scalp is primarily involved, it is called cradle cap. Dandruff is a milder form of the condition without inflammation.
Signs and symptoms[edit]
The primary symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis include:
- Redness
- Scaling
- Greasy skin
- Itching
- Inflammation
Areas commonly affected include:
- Scalp
- Face, especially around the eyebrows, eyelids, and nose
- Ears
- Chest
- Upper back
- Groin
- Armpits
Causes[edit]
The exact cause of seborrhoeic dermatitis is unknown. However, several factors may contribute to its development, including:
- Genetic predisposition
- Environmental factors
- Immune system abnormalities
- Overgrowth of the yeast Malassezia on the skin
- Changes in skin barrier function
Diagnosis[edit]
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is typically diagnosed based on the appearance of the skin and the areas affected. A physical examination and medical history may be used to rule out other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, or allergic contact dermatitis.
Treatment[edit]
There is no cure for seborrhoeic dermatitis, but treatments can help control symptoms and manage flare-ups. Common treatments include:
- Topical antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole or clotrimazole
- Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching
- Medicated shampoos containing selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, or coal tar
- Non-medicated shampoos for daily use to reduce oiliness
- Moisturizers to help with dry, scaly skin
- Lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding harsh soaps or skin care products, can also help manage seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Prognosis[edit]
Seborrhoeic dermatitis typically follows a chronic, relapsing course. Symptoms may improve with treatment but often recur periodically.
Epidemiology[edit]
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common skin condition affecting people of all ages. It is most prevalent in infants under three months old and adults aged 30-60 years.
Prevention[edit]
Preventing seborrhoeic dermatitis can be challenging due to the unknown exact cause and the chronic nature of the condition. However, some measures may help reduce the frequency or severity of flare-ups:
- Maintaining a regular skincare routine with gentle cleansers and moisturizers
- Avoiding harsh soaps, fragrances, or skin care products that can irritate the skin
- Managing stress levels, as stress may trigger or exacerbate symptoms
- Avoiding excessive sun exposure or using sun protection, as ultraviolet (UV) radiation can worsen symptoms
Complications[edit]
Although seborrhoeic dermatitis is generally not a serious condition, it can cause social or self-esteem issues due to its visible nature and the chronic itching and discomfort associated with it. Additionally, the constant scratching can lead to skin damage, infections, or scarring.
Society and culture[edit]
Seborrhoeic dermatitis can have a negative impact on a person's quality of life, particularly if the condition is severe or affects highly visible areas of the body. It may lead to social isolation, depression, or anxiety in some individuals. Public awareness and understanding of the condition are essential for reducing stigma and promoting effective management strategies.
Research[edit]
Research into the causes, prevention, and treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis is ongoing. Current areas of focus include investigating the role of the immune system and genetic factors in the development of the condition, as well as exploring new treatments to help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups.
Summary[edit]
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that can cause significant discomfort and have a negative impact on a person's quality of life. Further research into the exact causes and most effective treatments is necessary to improve the lives of those affected by this condition. Increasing public awareness and understanding of seborrhoeic dermatitis can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek appropriate medical care and management strategies.
See also[edit]
References[edit]
<references group="" responsive="1"></references>
External links[edit]
- DermNet NZ: Seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Medscape: Seborrheic Dermatitis
- American Academy of Dermatology - Seborrheic dermatitis
- NHS - Seborrhoeic dermatitis
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