Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff: A Comprehensive Review.

Luis J Borda ,Tongyu C Wikramanayake

doi:10.13188/2373-1044.1000019

Luis J Borda , Tongyu C Wikramanayake

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.13188/2373-1044.1000019

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Abstract

Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD) and dandruff are of a continuous spectrum of the same disease that affects the seborrheic areas of the body. Dandruff is restricted to the scalp, and involves itchy, flaking skin without visible inflammation. SD can affect the scalp as well as other seborrheic areas, and involves itchy and flaking or scaling skin, inflammation and pruritus. Various intrinsic and environmental factors, such as sebaceous secretions, skin surface fungal colonization, individual susceptibility, and interactions between these factors, all contribute to the pathogenesis of SD and dandruff. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on SD and dandruff, including epidemiology, burden of disease, clinical presentations and diagnosis, treatment, genetic studies in humans and animal models, and predisposing factors. Genetic and biochemical studies and investigations in animal models provide further insight on the pathophysiology and strategies for better treatment.

Highlights

Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD) and dandruff are common dermatological problems that affect the seborrheic areas of the body
Various intrinsic and environmental factors, such as sebaceous secretions, skin surface fungal colonization, individual susceptibility, and interactions between these factors, all contribute to the pathogenesis
We summarize the current knowledge on SD and dandruff, and attempt to provide directions for future investigations and treatments

Summary

Introduction

Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD) and dandruff are common dermatological problems that affect the seborrheic areas of the body. SD affects the scalp as well as face, retro-auricular area, and the upper chest, causing flaking, scaling, inflammation and pruritus, and can have marked erythema. SD may present on the scalp, face, retro-auricular area, body folds, and trunk; rarely it may be generalized.

Results

Conclusion