How does a doctor tell the difference between scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp?

Answer From Lawrence E. Gibson, M.D.

Multimedia

Your doctor can usually tell whether you have scalp psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis or both based on an examination of your skin, scalp and nails.

Scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis are common conditions that affect the scalp. In addition, they share some similar signs and symptoms, such as red, scaly skin.

Most often, the scales of psoriasis are thicker and somewhat drier in appearance than are the scales of seborrheic dermatitis. Psoriasis has more of a tendency to extend beyond the hairline. In addition, psoriasis usually affects more than one area of the body. If you have scalp psoriasis, you may also have mild psoriasis on your elbows, knees, hands or feet or may notice subtle nail changes, such as pitting.

Compare signs and symptoms

Scalp psoriasis

  • Red skin covered with flakes and silvery scales
  • Patches that may extend beyond the hairline or appear on other parts of the body
  • Itching or soreness

Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp

  • Red skin covered with greasy-looking white or yellowish scales
  • Skin flakes (dandruff) that may attach to the hair shaft
  • Possibly itching

Scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp share some similar treatments, including medicated shampoos and topical corticosteroid or antifungal solutions. Scalp psoriasis is often persistent and more difficult to treat than is seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. Additional treatments, such as phototherapy, may be required to bring psoriasis under better control.

Nov. 03, 2017 See more Expert Answers

See also

  1. 6 ways to manage itchy skin when you have psoriasis
  2. Arthritis
  3. Arthritis pain: Do's and don'ts
  4. Botox injections: Can they relieve arthritis pain?
  5. Can arthritis pain medications be harmful?
  6. Can psoriasis make it hard to sleep?
  7. Chapped lips: What's the best remedy?
  8. Dry skin
  9. Ease stress to reduce your psoriasis flares
  10. Exercising with arthritis
  11. Ground flaxseed
  12. Gluten sensitivity and psoriasis: What's the connection?
  13. How to heal cracked heels
  14. How to heal cracked skin at thumb tip
  15. Is the Mediterranean diet good for psoriasis?
  16. Living better with psoriasis
  17. Psoriasis-related health risks
  18. Mayo Clinic Minute: Fingernails are clues to your health
  19. Mayo Clinic Minute: Moisturizer tips from a dermatologist
  20. Moisturizers: Options for softer skin
  21. MSM for arthritis pain: Is it safe?
  22. nail psoriasis
  23. Photodynamic therapy
  24. Prednisone risks, benefits
  25. Pregnancy and breast-feeding with psoriasis
  26. Psoriasis
  27. Psoriasis and clinical trials
  28. Psoriasis and intimacy
  29. Psoriasis and your self-esteem
  30. Psoriasis diet: Can changing your diet treat psoriasis?
  31. Identifying psoriasis triggers
  32. Psoriasis: Get the most out of your treatment
  33. Psoriasis: How can I protect my skin during a workout?
  34. Fish oil supplements
  35. Psoriasis treatment options
  36. Psoriasis: What if I get psoriatic arthritis, too?
  37. Psoriasis: What to share with your doctor
  38. Relaxation techniques
  39. Self-esteem check
  40. Skin biopsy
  41. Skin care tips
  42. Skip flavored lip balm
  43. How to trim thickened toenails
  44. Slide show: 5 ways to thrive with psoriasis through the holidays
  45. Slide show: Caring for your skin when you have psoriasis
  46. Hand exercises for people with arthritis
  47. Joint protection
  48. Types of psoriasis
  49. Common skin rashes
  50. Stress management
  51. Time your lotions right
  52. Ward off dry skin
  53. Water exercise
  54. Alternative psoriasis treatments
  55. What are the risks of vaccinations for people living with psoriasis?
  56. What's the best way to manage scalp psoriasis?
  57. White patch on skin: A cause for concern?
  58. Yucca: Can it relieve arthritis pain?