This is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes reddening and flaking.
The exact cause is unknown but it is thought to be due to a combination of factors: inherited factors, hormonal factors, immune system weakness, nervous system disorders, nutritional habits and allergy to the Malassezia furfur fungus.
It manifests with reddened skin with scabs and/or white to yellowish flaking. It mainly affects skin's oily areas such as the scalp, the face or the inside of the ears.
The diagnosis is clinical through questioning and physical examination.
There is no definitive treatment and it is considered a chronic disease that appears in outbreaks. The application of creams and shampoos intended for this purpose may improve symptoms. In more severe cases, lotions or shampoos with corticosteroids and/or immunomodulators can be used to treat the inflammation. Ultraviolet light helps to improve the lesions, almost completely disappearing in times of increased sun exposure.
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