Access Dermatology

Summary

Although seborrheic dermatitis can occur throughout a person's lifetime, the condition is most prevalent in infancy (cradle cap) and advanced age. The classic presentation involves erythema and/or flaking or scaling in areas of high sebaceous activity on the face, in the nasolabial folds and around the ears, often occurring in conjunction with other common skin disorders, such as rosacea and acne. Malassezia fungi, sebaceous secretions and individual sensitivity are the primary pathogenic factors implicated in the disease process. Topical therapy is standard. Topical corticosteroids are no longer first-tier treatment options, though they still may be used in some instances for their anti-inflammatory effects. Ketoconazole, a long-established workhorse of seborrheic dermatitis management, is available in novel foam and gel formulations that may encourage better patient adherence. New therapeutic avenues, including novel topical anti-inflammatories and azelaic acid, continue to show promise.