Dermatology 2: Dandruff

Question 1

what’s dandruff

Answer 1

-scalp condition resulting in flaky, white or yellow skin that sheds from the scalps

Question 2

treatment for dandruff

Answer 2

-salicylic acid in shampoos etc.
-ketoconazole shampoos e.g. Nizoral

Question 3

how to apply the dandruff treatment

Answer 3

-nizoral shampoo you would use every 3-4 days for 4 weeks. once treated, the prevention dose would be once a week or 2 weeks.

-lather and apply to wet scalp and leave for 3-5 mins then rinse thoroughly

Question 4

causes of dandruff

Answer 4

-dry skin due to cold weather
-not hygiene related but can be more obvious when hair is not washed

Question 5

when to refer

Answer 5

-when anti dandruff shampoo hasn’t been working for over a month
-dandruff is severe and extremly itchy
-red swollen scalp
-flaky itchy patches on face and other parts of the body

Question 6

differential diagnosis of dandruff

Answer 6

-psoriasis
-tinea capitits
-cradle cap for babies
-eczema
-contact dermatitis