Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by erythematous lesions, affecting areas where sebaceous glands are more numerous: the scalp, the centrofacial, presternal, and creased areas of the skin. It affects 5% of the population and its pathophysiology is still unknown,, although it seems be related with irregular secretion of sebum, the immune system, individual susceptibility , Malassezia infection, and neurological, psychological, climatic, and nutritional factors. Emotional stress and depression play important roles in this pathology.
Well-defined macula or plaques appear, which vary from pink to reddish-brown and are coated in greasy scales. They are typically chronic but benign, and relapse is the norm. Treatment is aimed to reduce colonization of the skin by yeast, reducing sebaceous hypersecretion and controlling the accompanying inflammatory reaction.
It is recommended to frequently wash the area using special, hygienic procedures, use topical treatment, avoid aggravating factors, and avoid cosmetics.
