Dermatitis (Eczema)

Home » Dermatitis (Eczema) » Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, chronic condition that occurs in areas of the skin where there are large oil glands—the middle of the face, behind the ears, and especially on the scalp (dandruff). The condition is characterized by waxy scale and reddened skin areas. It affects approximately 3% to 5% of the population, most commonly men, and peaks in infancy and middle age.

Causes

Despite many attempts, researchers have been unable to identify a precise cause of seborrheic dermatitis. The most popular theory is that it is caused by a sensitivity to yeast on the skin, although research data is inconclusive; however, people with the condition often respond to antifungal medications. Certain drugs (e.g., methyldopa, cimetidine [Tagamet®], antiseizure medications) can aggravate seborrheic dermatitis.

Up to 85% of the people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have seborrheic dermatitis, and as their immunity wanes, the eruptions become more severe.

Signs and Symptoms

The most commonly affected areas of the body—the scalp (particularly in infants), mid-face, ears, chest, and groin—become red and inflamed and have a greasy, waxy scale. There can be periods of intense redness and inflammation, especially along the eyebrows and cheeks, followed by periods of relative quiescence. Infants have diffuse, thick, waxy scale on the scalp, a condition called cradle cap, that is not itchy.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis can be made based on a visual examination. It should be differentiated from other forms of eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Treatment

There is no known cure for seborrheic dermatitis; treatment, therefore, is directed toward symptom management and controlling the frequency of eruptions.

For infants with cradle cap, warm olive oil applied to the scalp and gently rubbed in will loosen the scales, and mild corticosteroid preparations can minimize inflammation. Shampoos with zinc or ketoconazole also can help.

It is recommended that affected adults shampoo daily with an antidandruff shampoo, using zinc, tar, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid shampoos. Antifungal creams offer a good nonsteroidal approach. For inflamed areas, mild hydrocortisone creams (0.5% to 1.0%), available over the counter, can be added. Corticosteroid creams can be used temporarily in the ears as well. Long-term use of these products is discouraged, however, because they cause side effects, such as breaking out in acne-like lesions and thinning of the skin. Also, the skin becomes accustomed to the steroid and an intense flare may occur when the medication is stopped. Aloe vera gel can be as effective as a mild cortisone cream, without the potential side effects.

Prevention

Frequent shampooing, bathing, and regular use of antifungal creams can minimize the intensity and frequency of future flare-ups. Frequency and intensity of flares also can be minimized by nutritional supplements of essential fatty acids as well as MSM (methylsulfonylmethane).

© 1998-2008 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Dermatitis (Eczema) Resources

	Join Our Dermatitis (Eczema) Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
Advertising Disclaimer To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer