Specific causes of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis are not known. Current theories for the cause of the disease include:
-A weakened immune system,
-The lack of specific nutrients (for example zinc),
-Or issues with the nervous system.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis may involve an inflammatory reaction to a proliferation of a form of the yeast Malassezia, though this has not been proven.
The main species found on the scalp is Malassezia globosa, others being Malassezia furfur (formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale) and Malassezia restricta.
The yeast produces toxic substances that irritate and inflame the skin. Patients with seborrhoeic dermatitis appear to have a reduced resistance to the yeast.
-A weakened immune system,
-The lack of specific nutrients (for example zinc),
-Or issues with the nervous system.
The main species found on the scalp is Malassezia globosa, others being Malassezia furfur (formerly known as Pityrosporum ovale) and Malassezia restricta.
The yeast produces toxic substances that irritate and inflame the skin. Patients with seborrhoeic dermatitis appear to have a reduced resistance to the yeast.
