Dermatitis, seborrhoeic

L21.0-1/L21.8-9

DESCRIPTION

Dandruff is an uninflamed form of seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Pruritus may or may not be present in seborrhoeic dermatitis.
The scalp, face, ears and skin folds e.g. axillae, groins, under the breasts are commonly affected.
May become very extensive, particularly in infants and HIV infected patients.

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Trim nails.
  • Avoid scratching.
  • Avoid perfumed soap.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

  • Hydrocortisone 1% topical, apply twice daily until improved.
    • Then apply once or twice weekly for maintenance as needed.

For severe dermatitis:

  • Corticosteroid, potent, topical, e.g.:
  • Betamethasone 0.1%, topical, apply ointment once daily for 5–7 days. (Doctor prescribed ).
    • Do not apply to face neck and flexures.

LoEI [16]

For itching scalp, scaling and dandruff:

  • Selenium sulphide, 2.5% suspension, apply weekly.
    • Lather on the scalp.
    • Rinse off after 10 minutes.
    • Apply weekly, until improved and every second week to maintain control.