Seborrheic dermatitis

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Skin layers

Seborrheic dermatitis

Definition:

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, inflammatory skin condition that causesflaky,white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas such as the scalp 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 Names:
Dandruff; Seborrheic eczema; Cradle cap
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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Seborrheic dermatitis can occur on many different body areas. Typically it forms where the skin is oily or greasy. Commonly affected areas includethe scalp, eyebrows, eyelids,creases of the nose, lips, behind the ears, in the external ear, and along skin folds on the middle of the body.

The cause is unknown.

Seborrheic dermatitis appears to run in families. Stress, fatigue, weather extremes, oily skin, infrequent shampoos or skin cleaning, use of lotions that contain alcohol, skin disorders (such as acne), or obesity may increase the risk.

Neurologic conditions, including Parkinson's disease, head injury, and stroke, may be associated with seborrheic dermatitis. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has also been linked toincreased cases of seborrheic dermatitis.

Cradle cap appears as thick, crusty, yellow or brown scales over the child's scalp. Similar scales may also be found on the eyelids, ear, around the nose, and in the groin. Cradle cap may be seen in newborns and small children up to the age of 3 years, and is a harmless, temporary condition.

Cradle cap is not contagious, nor is it caused by poor hygiene. It is not an allergy, and it is not dangerous. Cradle cap may or may not itch. If it itches, excessive scratching of the area may cause additional inflammation, and breaks in skin may cause mild infections or bleeding.

References:

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby, Inc. 2004:242-245.

Noble J. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:762-764.