title: Diagnostic dilemmas in pediatric/adolescent dermatology: scaly scalp.
abstract: Scaly scalp is a common problem in the pediatric and adolescent population. The possible causes range from the commonly seen tinea capitis and seborrheic dermatitis to rare systemic diseases such as dermatomyositis and Letterer-Siwe disease. In all cases a thorough history and physical examination are important first steps to successful diagnosis and treatment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
authors.forename: L L
authors.initials: LL
authors.lastname: McDonald
authors.forename: M L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Smith
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000175:diagnosis; D012628:Dermatitis, Seborrheic / Q000175:diagnosis; D003882:Dermatomyositis / Q000175:diagnosis; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D010371:Pediatric Nursing; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000175:diagnosis; D012532:Scabies / Q000175:diagnosis; D012536:Scalp Dermatoses / Q000175:diagnosis*; D014006:Tinea Capitis / Q000175:diagnosis