What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis and What Causes It?
Q:
What is seborrheic dermatitis and what causes it?
A:
Definition
Seborrheic dermatitis, also called dandruff, seborrheic eczema and seborrheic psoriasis, is a type of common skin condition that mainly affects your scalp, and sometimes the oily areas of the body. It causes scaly patches, red skin and stubborn dandruff. For infants, the condition is known as cradle cap and causes crusty, scaly patches on the scalp.
Causes
The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown. It may be related to:
- A yeast (fungus) called malassezia that is in the oil secretion on the skin
- An irregular response of the immune system
* The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.