A 30-Year-Old Man with Recurrent Scaling and Itching of the Scalp

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder that is suggested to be caused by an altered response to Malassezia yeasts and their metabolites. It primarily affects infants, adolescents, young adults, and the elderly, with men being more commonly affected than women. The condition is more frequently reported in immunocompromised patients, patients with neurological and psychiatric diseases, and patients with Down syndrome. Seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by erythematous plaques with greasy, yellowish scales with no hair loss, and usually presents with a mild itch. It tends to intensify with stress and in winter months, while improving in the summertime. The diagnosis is usually established clinically. Treatment for scalp seborrheic dermatitis often involves shampoos containing selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or antifungal agents. In severe cases, topical corticosteroids, oral antifungal agents, or isotretinoin may be used.