Special paper
Dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp – pathogenesis, clinical Picture and therapeutic aspects

Dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis (SD) are common, chronic and recurrent inflammatory skin disorders which are among the dermatological diseases most resistant to therapy. The aetiology of dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis is still unknown. Malassezia yeast, hormonal disorders, some genetic and environmental factors and also wrong epidermal turnover are strongly suspected of playing a role in the manifestation of dandruff. The aetiology of SD is poorly understood. Seborrhoeic dermatitis results from a few aetiological factors: sebaceous secretions, an immunological component, Malassezia fungi and superficial factors. Treatment of SD and dandruff lasts for years and very often patients are not satisfied because of temporary remission. We use mainly topical therapy for dandruff – cytostatic, keratolytics and antifungal preparations. Available specimens are designed for local treatment and have the following forms: shampoo, oils, liquids and creams. Pharmacologic treatment options for seborrhoeic dermatitis include in very severe cases some oral drugs – retinoids, antibiotics, antifungal preparations (ketoconazole, fluconazole, itraconazole) and also topical management and phototherapy. Prophylaxis is also very important.