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Seborrheic Dermatitis

- Summary
- About seborrheic dermatitis
- Risk factors and causes
- Signs and symptoms
- Diagnosis and treatment
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Mary Ellen Luchetti, M.D., AAD

Summary

Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammation of the upper layers of the skin. It typically causes a scaly, itchy rash that often appears with reddened skin on the scalp, sides of the nose, eyebrows, eyelids, skin behind the ears and middle of the chest. It may also appear on the navel, buttocks and skin folds under the arms, breasts and groin.

Seborrheic dermatitis results from an overproduction of skin cells and sebum, the skin’s natural oil. There are three age groups that are most likely to develop seborrheic dermatitis: infants, middle-aged adults and the elderly. When the disorder appears on the scalp in infants, it is called cradle cap.

Oil and Sweat Producing Glands

The main therapy for seborrheic dermatitis is diligent and consistent shampooing of the scalp and washing of the skin. Medications such as corticosteroids or antifungals are also sometimes used to treat seborrheic dermatitis. These formulations are likely to be much stronger for adults than for children.

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Review Date: 11-28-2006

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