Schuppung

Schuppung is a dermatological term describing the formation and shedding of scale-like flakes on the skin or mucous membranes. It is commonly observed as flaky, white or grayish patches on the scalp, face, trunk, or extremities, and may be accompanied by itching or irritation. The term derives from the German Schuppe, meaning scale, and describes the process of desquamation, the shedding of the outermost skin layer (the stratum corneum).

Schuppung results from altered epidermal turnover or moisture balance. Causes include xerosis (dry skin), inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and ichthyosis; fungal infections like tinea versicolor or dermatophyte infections; contact dermatitis; nutritional deficiencies; or certain medications. In newborns, mild physiologic scaling is common shortly after birth.

Diagnosis is usually clinical. In uncertain cases, skin scrapings, microscopy, or a potassium hydroxide prep may be used to exclude fungal involvement; patch testing can help identify contact dermatitis.

Treatment targets the underlying cause and skin care. Emollients and humectants restore moisture. Keratolytics such as urea or salicylic acid can help remove scales. Anti-inflammatory therapies (topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors) may be used for inflammatory dermatitis. Antifungal agents are used if infection is present. For scalp involvement, medicated shampoos containing ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, or coal tar can reduce scaling and itching. Preventive care includes gentle skin cleansing and avoiding irritants.