Analysis of the epidemiology, coexisting skin diseases, and variables affecting seborrheic dermatitis severity

Abstract

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a common chronic skin disease that has a repeating future. SD affects between 1 and 3% of adults with normal immunity. Recent studies have shown that many cutaneous diseases, including SD, are associated with other skin conditions. In this current study, we aimed to assess the epidemiology, comorbid skin diseases accompanying the SD, and factors affecting the severity of the SD. This was a prospective study conducted in dermatology departments between January 2020 and December 2020. The baseline demographic data was recorded. Disease severity was assessed according to the Seborrheic Dermatitis Area and Severity Index (SDASI) scoring system. In this study, 211 patients with SD (92 men and 119 women) were included. The mean age of the patients was 32.51±15.31 years (range: 11–82). The mean disease duration was 38.59 months (range: 1–720 months). Emotional distress was the most common trigger, followed by seasons. The scalp, eyebrows, ears, nasolabial region, forehead, intermammary, postauricular area, and back were the body parts most frequently afflicted. 43 out of 211 patients had concomitant systemic diseases, and 64.5% of the patients had concomitant skin diseases. Also, almost half of the patients applied in the winter. The mean SDASI was 2.92±1.2 (range 0.3–8.1). In this study, SD was more commonly reported in females and the winter. Disease severity was higher in smokers and patients who applied in the summer. The severity of SD was unaffected by concomitant skin disease, gender, age, educational level, working status, skin type, alcohol consumption status, presence of trigger factors, comorbid skin and systemic diseases, and family history of SD or skin diseases. To improve the quality of life for SD patients, factors impacting disease severity should be carefully managed.