Infantile Seborrhoeic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap)

Infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis presents as erythematous patches with greasy scales in the scalp, face, and intertriginous zones.

  • Risk factors
    • Infants aged 2 weeks – 12 months
    • Male infants
    • Family history of atopic disease
  • Natural history
    • Onset within the first 3 months of life
    • Peaks at 3 – 8 weeks of age
    • Spontaneous resolution within 6 – 12 months without long-term sequelae
    • Complete resolution by 12 months in 85-90% or patients
  • Signs and symptoms
  • Treatment
    • Reassure that it does not affect the baby and resolves in a few weeks
    • Topical emollient on the scalp (softens crusted areas before washing off in the morning)
    • Topical imidazole, if it does not resolve
Dr Jeffrey Kalei
Dr Jeffrey Kalei

Author and illustrator for Hyperexcision. Interested in emergency room medicine. I have a passion for medical education and drawing.

Post Discussion

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *