1. What is seborrheic
dermatitis?
This condition is an inflammation in areas having the greatest number
of sebaceous or oil glands. The scalp, sides of the nose, eyebrows,
eyelids, and the skin behind the ears and middle of the chest are
the most common sites. The affected skin is red and the scale can
be yellowish and greasy. Itching may occur but is usually mild.
2. Are dandruff, seborrhea
and seborrheic dermatitis the same?
Dandruff is characterized by excessive scaling on the scalp without
redness. There is no skin inflammation. Seborrhea describes excessive
oiliness of the skin, especially of the scalp and face. There is
no redness or scaling. Patients with seborrhea may later develop
seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis has both redness and
scaling.
3. Who gets seborrheic
dermatitis?
This condition can occur at any age but is most common in three
distinct age groups: infancy when it’s called "cradle
cap," middle age, and the elderly. Cradle cap usually clears
without treatment by age eight to twelve months. Seborrheic dermatitis
is also common in people with oily skin or hair.
4. Is the condition
associated with other diseases?
There is an increased occurrence of seborrheic dermatitis in adults
with conditions of the nervous system such as Parkinson’s
disease and in some patients recovering from stressful medical or
surgical conditions. This may resolve on its own without treatment.
5. Can it be prevented?
There is no way to prevent or cure seborrheic dermatitis. If the
rash is a cosmetic problem or if symptoms such as itching are significant,
it should be treated. If the scalp is involved, frequent shampooing
may be helpful.
6. How is this condition
treated?
This skin disorder is treatable but may recur, requiring retreatment.
One effective treatment is a low strength cortisone cream or lotion
applied to the affected areas of skin. Some patients may need to
use a stronger cortisone cream or lotion. The frequent use of nonprescription
shampoos containing tar, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, sulfur
and/or salicylic acid may be recommended by a dermatologist. Or
the dermatologist may recommend a prescription shampoo for the patient.
|
