South African Family Practice, Vol 49, No 1 - January/February 2007

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Seborrhoeic dermatitis: An overview

R A Schwartz, C A Janusz CA, C K Janniger

Abstract


Seborrhoeic dermatitis affects the scalp, central face, and anterior chest. In adolescents and adults, it often presents as scalp scaling (dandruff). Seborrhoeic dermatitis also may cause mild to marked erythema of the nasolabial fold, often with scaling. Stress can cause flare-ups. The scales are greasy, not dry, as commonly thought. An uncommon generalized form in infants may be linked to immuno-deficiencies. Topical therapy primarily consists of antifungal agents and low-potency steroids. New topical calcineurin inhibitors (immunomodulators) sometimes are administered.


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SA Fam Pract | ISSN: 1726-426X


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