Monday 15 November 2010

MRCP revision battle 50.3: Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis, AKA seborrhoeic eczema, is a skin condition characterised by dandruff and sometimes dry, erythematous flakey skin.


It is associated with a fungus called Malassezia furfur (previously known as Pityrosporum ovale).  However, it is not contagious.


Treatment is with ketoconazole 2% shampoo and anti-fungal cream.


Severe forms of seborrhoeic dermatitis are associated with Parkinson's disease and HIV.

Complications include otitis externa and blepharitis.


Now for some hair loss...