infantile seborrheic dermatitis
A common inflammatory skin condition in infants characterized by greasy, scaly patches, especially on the scalp.
Full Definition
Infantile seborrheic dermatitis is a benign, self-limiting inflammatory condition affecting infants, typically within the first few months of life. It presents as erythematous, greasy, scaling patches primarily on sebum-rich areas including the scalp (cradle cap), face, and intertriginous areas. The condition differs from atopic dermatitis in its distribution, lack of pruritus, and spontaneous resolution. Medical writers should note the distinction from other scaling disorders and emphasize the reassuring prognosis for parental education materials.
Usage
Usage note: Use the full term rather than 'cradle cap' in formal medical writing. Note the 'rh' spelling in seborrheic.
In Context
- "The thick, adherent scales on the infant's scalp were typical of infantile seborrheic dermatitis." — clinical documentation
- "Unlike atopic dermatitis, infantile seborrheic dermatitis rarely causes significant pruritus." — differential diagnosis guide