What Is The Difference Between Atopic Dermatitis And Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis are both skin conditions that can cause red, itchy, and scaly skin. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions.
Atopic dermatitis is a type of eczema, which is a group of inflammatory skin conditions. Eczema can be caused by a variety of things, including genetics, environmental irritants, and allergies. Seborrheic dermatitis, on the other hand, is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast that naturally lives on the skin. This overgrowth can be triggered by things like stress, hormonal changes, or greasy skin.
The most obvious difference between atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis is the location of the rash. Atopic dermatitis often starts on the face, in the creases of the elbows or knees, or on the hands and feet. Seborrheic dermatitis usually appears on the scalp, in the eyebrows, on the sides of the nose, or behind the ears. It can also appear on the chest or back.
Other differences between atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis include:
- Seborrheic dermatitis is more likely to affect adults than children, while atopic dermatitis is more common in children.
- Seborrheic dermatitis is more likely to affect people who have oily skin or certain medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or HIV/AIDS. Atopic dermatitis is more common in people who have a family history of eczema.
- Seborrheic dermatitis often gets better in the winter and worse in the summer. Atopic dermatitis can get worse in the winter and improve in the summer.
If you're not sure whether you have atopic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis, your best bet is to see a board-certified dermatologist. A doctor can help you figure out which condition you have and develop a treatment plan that's right for you.
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic (long-lasting) condition that tends to run in families. People with atopic dermatitis are more likely to have other allergies, such as hay fever or asthma.
Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes a greasy, scaly rash. It often affects the scalp, causing dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis can occur at any age, but it is most common in adults.
Treatment
Atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis can both be treated with medicated creams or ointments. In some cases, oral antihistamines may also be prescribed to help relieve the itching.
Causes
Atopic dermatitis is caused by an overactive immune system response to an unknown trigger. It is often seen in people with allergies or asthma. Seborrheic dermatitis, on the other hand, is thought to be caused by a combination of overactive oil glands and a yeast infection.
Symptoms
Both atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis can cause red, scaly skin. However, atopic dermatitis typically results in dry, itchy skin, while seborrheic dermatitis often leads to oily, crusty skin.
Treatment
There is no cure for either atopic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis. However, both conditions can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Atopic dermatitis is typically treated with corticosteroid creams, while seborrheic dermatitis is often treated with antifungal creams or shampoos.