Enfermedades del Cuero Cabelludo

General Overview of Scalp Diseases

• Scalp diseases encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the skin and tissues of the scalp.
• These conditions can manifest as varied symptoms, from mild irritation to severe inflammation and/or hair loss.
• Diagnosis and treatment rely on identifying the underlying cause.
• Common factors influencing scalp health include genetics, environmental factors, and underlying medical conditions.

Common Types of Scalp Diseases

• Seborrheic Dermatitis: A common inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, flaky patches on the scalp, face, or other body areas.
  • Often associated with oily skin and/or yeast overgrowth.
  • Symptoms may include itching, scaling, and sometimes dandruff.
• Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune disorder causing skin cells to multiply rapidly, leading to raised, red, scaly patches.
  • Scalp psoriasis manifests similarly to other body parts, with noticeable scaling and itching.
  • Often accompanied by joint inflammation (psoriatic arthritis).
• Fungal Infections (Tinea Capitis): Fungal infections presenting as patchy hair loss or circular scaling.
  • Can lead to inflammation and itching.
  • Typically treated with antifungal medications.
• Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition characterized by sudden, spotty hair loss, potentially leading to complete baldness in affected areas.
  • Its cause is unknown, though stress and other factors may trigger outbreaks.
• Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, appearing as small bumps and/or pustules.
  • Can result from bacteria, fungi, or certain medications.
  • Symptoms may include itching, pain, and redness.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the scalp.
  • Characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
  • May be linked to allergies or other environmental factors.
• Lichen Planopilaris: Inflammatory skin disorder marked by hair loss, itching, and inflammation that progresses to scarring.
  • Often presents as small, reddish bumps.

Contributing Factors to Scalp Diseases

• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones sometimes trigger or worsen conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
• Stress: Psychological stress potentially contributes to the development or worsening of certain scalp conditions.
• Medications: Some medications, including antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can cause or exacerbate scalp problems.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to allergens (chemicals, dust, cold, or wind) can provoke inflammation and skin reactions.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Systemic illnesses like lupus or thyroid disorders can contribute to scalp issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosis frequently involves a physical examination by a dermatologist or trichologist (hair specialist).
• Detailed patient history and assessments, including symptom triggers and medical history, are crucial.
• Treatment options vary by diagnosis, encompassing topical medications (creams, ointments, shampoos), oral medications, topical steroids, or more intensive interventions.
• Lifestyle changes (stress management, dietary adjustments) might aid treatment.
• Regular scalp health monitoring is vital for successful treatment, especially for chronic conditions.
• Self-treatment without professional guidance is generally discouraged, as some conditions can be serious.

Management and Prevention

• Keep the scalp clean and dry; avoid harsh shampoos.
• Identify and manage contributing factors (e.g., stress management).
• Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare professional are essential, especially for chronic conditions.
• Customized skincare routines for scalp needs are beneficial.
• Consult a dermatologist or trichologist regularly to prevent severe scalp disease outcomes.