Papulosquamous scalp dermatoses: key aspects of differential diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis are common papulosquamous dermatoses. When localized only on the scalp, they often have very similar clinical manifestations and require a comprehensive differential diagnostic approach. The article presents the main comparative clinical and diagnostic characteristics of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, including trichoscopy features and pathomorphological markers. Topical therapy with glucocorticosteroids, keratolytics and agents with antifungal activity is of key importance in the treatment of papulosquamous diseases. Modern topical drugs with a fixed combination of active ingredients provide an effect on several pathogenetic mechanisms at once, are stable, compatible, and convenient for use by patients. One of the main drugs for the treatment of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis is a solution of betamethasone dipropionate and salicylic acid (trade name – Akriderm SK), which in terms of anti-inflammatory activity is comparable to the highest strength topical corticosteroids, while providing a faster response to therapy and effectively relieving symptoms of itching and peeling. This is confirmed by the authors’ own clinical experience and demonstrated in the clinical cases described in the article.