The following is a summary of “Unmet needs for patients with seborrheic dermatitis,” published in the March 2024 issue of Dermatology by Jackson, et al.
Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) presents a common skin condition with diverse manifestations influenced by skin color, underlying medical conditions, environmental factors, and treatment preferences. Diagnosis relies on identifying flaky, “greasy” patches, and/or thin plaques accompanied by erythema, primarily on the scalp, face, ears, chest, and groin, often accompanied by itching. The clinical presentation may vary across different skin types, with potential hyper- or hypopigmentation, varying degrees of erythema, and differing scaling levels.
Although the precise pathogenesis remained unclear, three key factors were commonly implicated: sebaceous gland lipid secretion, colonization by Malassezia spp., and some immunologic dysregulation predisposing individuals to SD. Management typically involves targeting Malassezia spp. proliferation and inflammatory responses. Topical therapies, such as antifungal agents and low-potency corticosteroids, constitute the primary treatment approach, albeit limited by efficacy and potential side effects. While few novel treatments are under investigation, recent clinical trials have explored the use of topical phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors.
Enhancing SD outcomes necessitates a tailored approach that recognizes the individualized manifestations and affected areas across diverse skin types, promoting awareness of its impact across populations. It underscored the importance of considering patient-specific factors in SD management and highlighted the need for ongoing research to develop more effective treatment options and improve overall patient care.