Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is also called the common
rash.
The word seborrheic is derived from seborrhea,
or the excessive production of oil (sebum) from the skin's sebaceous
or oil glands. Dermatitis is the inflammation
of the skin.
Symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis
The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis are:
- Rash
- Red, scaly or flaky skin
- Dry or greasy in appearance
- Itching
- Dandruff
This condition is most often located on parts of the body that
have many sebaceous glands, such as:
- Scalp
- Nose, eyebrows, and eyelids
- Ear
- Navel
- Chest
Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis
This common rash is thought to be caused by increased growth
of the yeast Pityrosporum ovale, which normally lives
on the skin but thrives on oily and warm areas.
Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis
Although there is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis, however,
it can be controlled by:
- For scalp rash, using shampoo with selenium sulfide, zinc
pyrithione, tar, or sulfur
- Avoiding scratching the rash
- Using hydrocortisone lotion to relieve itching
Your doctor may prescribe:
- Prescription-strength corticosteroid cream or shampoos
- Antifungal medicine, such as ketoconazole
