DEAR DR. GOTT: I have seborrheic dermatitis. I’ve been to many doctors, and no one has ever relieved the itch or the loss of hair. I take clobetasol propionate topical solution, fluocinolone acetonide topical solution and a half hydroxyzine HCL tablet at night for the itch. Nothing has helped. I have no dandruff or pimples but a pink scalp that itches. Can you help?
DEAR READER: Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin disorder that commonly attacks the scalp. It commonly presents with dandruff and scaly and itchy red skin on the scalp but can also appear in the groin, armpits, between the eyebrows and in other locations. You certainly don’t exhibit the classic symptoms, so I question whether you have been diagnosed properly. Similar conditions include tinea capitis (ringworm), which causes bald scalp patches that itch but are red; scalp psoriasis, which covers the scalp with silver-colored scales; and actinic keratoses, presenting with pink patches.
Perhaps you wash your hair too often in hot water with an abrasive shampoo and use a dryer held too close to your head.
I believe you need a second opinion and testing from a dermatologist. You can’t be treated properly until you can verify exactly what it is you suffer from.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Dermatitis, Psoriasis & Eczema.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order made payable to Newsletter and mailed to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
