Definition

Seborrheic dermatitis is a red, swollen, and scaly rash on the skin. The skin may also be itchy. It is common on the scalp, ears, eyebrows, face, eyelids, chest, back, armpits, and genitals.

Dandruff is a type of seborrheic dermatitis where there is a scaling of the skin on the scalp.

Seborrheic Dermatitis © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

The exact cause is not known. Common skin yeast organisms or genetics may play a role.

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in men. Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Having a weakened immune system due to things like HIV infection or a recent organ transplant
• Chronic health problems, such as hepatitis C
• Genetic diseases, such as Down syndrome

Symptoms

Problems may be mild to severe. Symptoms may also come and go over time.

The skin may have:

• Patchy scales that may look greasy or moist
• Yellow to white scales that flake off
• Redness
• Itching and burning
• Small pimples on the nose, eyebrows, chest, back, arm pits, or genitals

Newborns may have a thick, yellow, crusted scalp rash known as cradle cap.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the rash. This is often enough to make the diagnosis. You may need to see a doctor who treats skin problems.

Treatment

There is no cure. The rash may get better on its own in children. Baby shampoo, mineral oil, and anti-fungal shampoos can help.

In others, the goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. Choices are:

• Prescription or over the counter shampoos
• Prescription or over the counter creams or lotions that contain:
  • Hydrocortisone or other cortisone (steroid) preparations
  • Antifungal medications
  • Antibiotic medication
  • Pimecrolimus or tacrolimus
  • Lithium salt

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.