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Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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In this Article

• Seborrheic dermatitis facts
• What is seborrheic dermatitis?
• What are risk factors for seborrheic dermatitis?
• What causes seborrheic dermatitis?
• What are seborrheic dermatitis symptoms and signs?
• How is seborrheic dermatitis diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for seborrheic dermatitis?
• What are complications of seborrheic dermatitis?
• What is the prognosis of seborrheic dermatitis?
• Can seborrheic dermatitis be prevented?
• Patient Comments: Seborrheic Dermatitis - Treatments
• Find a local Doctor in your town
• Seborrheic Dermatitis Index

There are few direct complications attributable to this condition. Most problems seem to be related to misdiagnosis or mistreatment. Rarely, certain cutaneous fungal infections of the face and scalp can resemble seborrheic dermatitis. Treatment of errors of this sort with anti-inflammatory medications (topical steroids) can encourage the growth of fungi and the spread of the infection. The overuse of potent topical steroids in an ill-conceived attempt to cure this condition, especially on the face and armpits, can result in many undesirable skin changes.

Since seborrheic dermatitis generally is not associated with any serious problems, one way of looking at prognosis would be optimistically. On the other hand, although treatment almost always results in an excellent response, it is unlikely to result in any durable, permanent resolution of the disease.

Seborrheic dermatitis is not preventable.

REFERENCE:

Stefanaki, I., and A. Katsambas. "Therapeutic Update on Seborrheic Dermatitis." Skin Therapy Lett. 15.5 May 2010: 1-4.