Seborrhoeic dermatitis

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Seborrhoeic dermatitis
Classifications and external resources

ICD-10	L21.
ICD-9	690
DiseasesDB	11911
MedlinePlus	000963
eMedicine	derm/396

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a skin disorder affecting the scalp, face and trunk causing scaly, flaky, itchy, red skin. It particularly affects the sebum-gland rich areas of skin.

Contents 1 Etiology 2 Treatments 3 See also 4 External links

[edit] Etiology

It is thought to be caused by a fungal infection caused by the yeast Malassezia furfur (formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale) in individuals with decreased immunity and increased sebum production. In a normally-functioning individual, the fungus thrives without incident, but in those afflicted with seborrhoeic dermatitis, the body's epidermis responds unfavorably to the infection, becoming inflamed and shedding large scales of skin in a failed attempt to rid itself of the fungus.

[edit] Treatments

Soaps and Detergents such as Sodium Laureth Sulfate may precipitate a flare-up, as they strip moisture from the top layers of the skin, and the drying property of these can cause flare-ups and may worsen the condition. Accordingly a suitable alternative should be used instead.

The dermatologist recommended treatment is ketoconazole (Nizoral®) creams and/or shampoos. Shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or coal tar may also help, as may lotions containing alpha-hydroxy acids.

Topical steroids are reserved for acute flare-ups only as they may precipitate recurrences and dependence.

[edit] See also

• Dermatitis
• Dandruff
• Cradle Cap
• Acne vulgaris & Rosacea with which Seborrhoeic dermatitis may be confused

[edit] External links

• Seborrhoeic dermatitis. New Zealand Dermatological Society (24 Sep 2006). Retrieved on 2006-10-29.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis FAQS - Detailed but uncited information about Seborrheic Dermatitis and its treatments. Includes orthodox and alternative treatments.