Welcome to our blog post on Pityriasis Steatoides, also known as Classic Seborrhoeic Dermatitis. This chronic inflammatory skin condition presents with redness, scaling, and itching of the skin, typically in oily areas of the body. It may have active and inactive phases, with increased activity in winter and early spring, and remissions in summer. In this article, we'll explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for Pityriasis Steatoides. Let's dive in!
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| Pityriasis Steatoides |
Definition
Pityriasis Steatoides is a type of dandruff characterized by large yellow flakes with a waxy/sticky texture. It is caused when dead skin cells mix with an overproduction of sebum (oil) and clump together on the scalp or affected areas of the skin.
It is important to
distinguish Pityriasis Steatoides from the more common type of dandruff,
Pityriasis Captis Simplex, which presents as white, lightweight flakes that
attach to the scalp in clusters or are scattered within the hair.
Affected Area
Pityriasis Steatoides is a chronic inflammatory skin condition commonly affecting the scalp, nose, ears, eyebrows, pre-sternum, and intra-scapula.
Seasonal Variations
Pityriasis Steatoides may have an active and inactive phase, with increased activity in winter and early spring, and remissions in summer.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Pityriasis Steatoides may include:
- Large yellow flakes with a waxy/sticky texture on the scalp or affected areas of the skin.
- Pink or red appearance of the underlying skin.
- Unpleasant odor due to excessive sebum production.
- Intermittent activity, with an active and inactive phase, is often exacerbated in winter and early spring, and remissions in summer.
- Possible visible border resembling Pityriasis Circinata.
Common Affected Areas
Pityriasis steatoides typically manifests on various areas of the body, including the scalp, nose, ears, eyebrows, pre-sternum, and intra-scapula region.Causes
Pityriasis steatoides is caused by a combination of factors. The physiopathology
of this condition involves dead cells that are supposed to shed, mixing with an
overproduction of sebum (oil), resulting in large yellow flakes that accumulate
on the scalp or skin.
A yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, which feeds on oils
on the scalp, is a major cause of pityriasis steatoides.
Other causes include infrequent or over-shampooing, harsh hair products, weather changes, diet, overactive sebaceous glands (oily
skin), stress, vitamin deficiency (specifically Zinc and Vitamin B), and
illness.
Contagiousness
Pityriasis Steatoides is a non-contagious skin condition
Treatment
Treatment for Pityriasis Steatoides requires evaluation by a
Trichologist or Dermatologist, as it cannot be treated by a Cosmetologist. A
common treatment option is econazole nitrate lotion, applied twice daily
without washing the hair.
It can also be effectively managed using anti-dandruff
shampoos that contain antimicrobial ingredients (such as selenium, sulfide, and
zinc).
It's important to
follow the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional for the proper
management of this condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pityriasis Steatoides is a chronic
inflammatory skin condition that affects the scalp, nose, ears, and other
areas. It requires evaluation and treatment by a Trichologist or Dermatologist,
as it cannot be treated by a Cosmetologist. The best treatment option is
econazole nitrate lotion applied twice a day. It is important to note that
Pityriasis Steatoides is non-contagious, but if you suspect you have it, seek
medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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