Seborrheic Dermatitis
What is Seborrheic Dermatitis:
Seborrheic dermatitis (Seb Derm) is a skin condition that affects approximately 3% of Americans. Other names for this condition are dandruff, seborrheic eczema, seborreheic psoriasis. When seen in infants, it is called cradle cap. People with this skin condition have dry, flaking, scaly patches and stubborn dandruff on the central portion of the face, upper chest and scalp. In general, most people with seborrheic dermatitis are healthy, and the condition is not a sign of poor health or poor hygiene. However, most people are bothered by the dry sensation, constant dandruff and uncomfortable itching sensation
What Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?
The exact cause of Seb Derm is not well understood. Current research believes it may be related to the presence of fungus malassezia that triggers an excessive amount of inflammatory response. Other research shows that patients with Seb Derm have impaired skin barrier that is not effective in separating the outside allergens and irritants from entering our skin. Change in seasons from fall to winter and spring can also make the disease worse. Lastly, people with neurological (e.g., depression and Parkinson’s disease and psychiatric conditions), poor immune system (e.g., HIV/AIDS), hear failure and some medications have increased risk developing this skin condition.