A practical guide to scalp disorders.
The scalp is unique among skin areas in humans, with high follicular density and a high rate of sebum production. The relatively dark and warm environment on the scalp surface provides a welcoming environment for the superficial mycotic infections associated with many scalp conditions and for parasitic infestation. Infections and infestations can occur when items such as fingers, combs, hats, or styling implements come into contact with the hair and scalp and introduce microorganisms. Inflammatory conditions may also produce changes in the scalp. Many common scalp conditions have similar symptoms and clinical features, complicating diagnosis, but a correct diagnosis is critical to determining proper treatment. This paper describes the symptoms, etiology, and treatment strategies for a number of common scalp conditions, including dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, tinea capitis, pediculosis capitis, and psoriasis.
Grimalt
Ramon
R
Department of Dermatology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. grimalt@ub.edu
D000818:Animals; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000977:Antiparasitic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012628:Dermatitis, Seborrheic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D010373:Lice Infestations / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000469:parasitology / Q000628:therapy; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D012536:Scalp Dermatoses / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy
D000935:Antifungal Agents; D000977:Antiparasitic Agents; D003879:Dermatologic Agents