The Itchy Scalp: Causes and Diagnosis
July 2008
TLDR Scalp itching can be caused by various skin conditions, hair loss, allergies, or anxiety.
The document discussed that scalp pruritus, or itching, was a symptom associated with various dermatological conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, pediculosis, eczema, and lichen simplex chronicus. It noted that in some cases, androgenetic alopecia was linked to scalp itching and irritation. Additionally, scalp pruritus could be a significant feature of contact dermatitis and less common conditions like dermatitis herpetiformis, lichen planopilaris, and trigeminal trophic syndrome. Psychological factors, especially anxiety, could also exacerbate or present as scalp itching. The document emphasized the importance of identifying specific features in a patient's history and examination for accurate diagnosis, and sometimes a therapeutic trial was necessary.