Seboreisk

Seboreisk is a term used in dermatology to describe disorders related to sebaceous gland activity, most commonly seborrheic dermatitis and related oily-skin conditions. It is a descriptive label rather than a single disease, applied to conditions marked by excessive sebum production and characteristic scales or inflammation.

Signs and symptoms typically include greasy or oily skin, especially on the scalp, face, and upper trunk, accompanied by white or yellowish flakes, redness, and sometimes itching. In some individuals, lesions may be more inflamed, with persistent redness and crusting around areas such as the eyebrows, nose folds, and behind the ears.

Causes and risk factors are multifactorial. The pathophysiology often involves an interaction between sebaceous gland activity, the skin’s immune response, and the presence of Malassezia yeast on the skin. Hormonal influences, genetic susceptibility, climate, stress, and certain medical conditions can increase risk or severity. Newborns and individuals with neurological or immune-related disorders may experience more prominent symptoms in certain cases.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on visible signs and the distribution of symptoms. In some situations, clinicians may perform skin scrapings or cultures to exclude fungal infections or other dermatitis in the differential diagnosis, such as psoriasis or contact dermatitis.

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and controlling sebum production. Options include regular cleansing with mild shampoos or cleansers, and medicated agents such as zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or ciclopirox. Topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors may be used short term for inflammation, with antifungal shampoos for scalp involvement. Most cases are chronic with relapses, but respond to ongoing management.

See also: seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, Malassezia, sebum.