Seborrheic dermatitis: an overview

Am Fam Physician. 2006 Jul 1;74(1):125-30.

Abstract

Seborrheic dermatitis affects the scalp, central face, and anterior chest. In adolescents and adults, it often presents as scalp scaling (dandruff). Seborrheic dermatitis also may cause mild to marked erythema of the nasolabial fold, often with scaling. Stress can cause flare-ups. The scales are greasy, not dry, as commonly thought. An uncommon generalized form in infants may be linked to immunodeficiencies. Topical therapy primarily consists of antifungal agents and low-potency steroids. New topical calcineurin inhibitors (immunomodulators) sometimes are administered.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Dermatitis, Seborrheic / classification
  • Dermatitis, Seborrheic / diagnosis
  • Dermatitis, Seborrheic / etiology*
  • Dermatitis, Seborrheic / therapy*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Keratolytic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Skin / pathology

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Antifungal Agents
  • Keratolytic Agents