Seborrheic dermatitis ( dandruff)
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What is dandruff?
Dandruff is a common scalp condition in which small pieces of dry skin flake off from the scalp and is usually associated with itching. Dandruff is considered to be a mild form of an inflammatory disorder of skin called “seborrhoeic dermatitis”.
What is the difference between dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis?
Dandruff typically affects only the scalp and is a mild form with loose adherent flaking. Seborrhoeic dermatitis can extand beyond the scalp and affects the folds besides the nose, ears, eyebrows, beard area, upper back and chest Redness and itching of the skin is seen along with flaking which may be dry or yellowish and greasy in nature.
What causes dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis?
The exact cause of dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis is unknown.
Possible causes include increased oil production and secretion,increased numbers of normal skin yeasts and a genetic predisposition.
common triggers (factors that may worsen) include oily skin or scalp, emotional stress, weather (cold and dry), poor hygiene and infrequent washing or shampooing. dieatry factors do not play a role.
seborrhoeic dermatitis is also more seen and more severe in HIV infection and Parkinson,s disease patients.
How does seborrheic dermatitis manifest?
seborrheic dermatitis commonly manifests in adolesce or adulthood. however it can also be seen in children as cradle cap on the scalp or as a rash in the nappy area.
seborrheic dermatitis can manifest as itchy flaking skin or the rash may be present without any symptoms.it can have varied presentations as:
- Itchy scalp
- White flakes on shoulders of dark clothing
- Scaly facial skin
- Facial rash over eyebrows, nose and ears
Recurrent ear eczema-itchy flaky skin or oozing in the ear canal
Oily scalp and facial skin with dry flakes
- Eyebrow or beard rash
Rash on the trunk(mid-chest or mid-back)-dry flakes and red spots
Rash in the skin folds (armpits, groins, under, under the breast)-redness/scaling
Is seborrheic dermatitis hereditary? Is it contagious?
Seborrheic dermatitis has a genetic predisposition and can be seen in other family members.
seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious and is not transmissible to contacts or family members.
