Clinical Profile of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis Patients Seen in a Tertiary Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria - A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND

Seborrhoeic dermatitis (SD) is a common dermatosis worldwide and ranks among the ten most prevalent skin conditions in Nigeria and Africa. However, studies on SD in African populations are sparse. This study aimed to document the demographic and clinical characteristics of adult SD patients in Lagos, Nigeria.

METHODOLOGY

A prospective, hospital-based case-control study was conducted at a tertiary dermatology clinic between January and July 2019. It included 80 newly diagnosed SD patients and 80 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Demographic and clinical data were collected using structured questionnaires, detailed skin examinations,10% KOH microscopy of lesional scrapings, and blood tests for random blood sugar and HIV serology. Severity was classified using a modified SD severity scoring system. Data analysis was performed using Epi Info version 7.2 and SPSS version 22.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 32 years, and 52.5% were female. Most patients had recurrent, scaly, and pruritic lesions on the face, scalp, and trunk, with 81% reporting recurrences. Aggravating factors included hot and humid weather, stress, and inappropriate skincare. Family history of SD and medicated soap use were common (66.3%). Embarrassment due to lesions was reported in 93.8% of cases. Self-medication with triple-action creams, antihistamines, and herbal remedies was found in 91.3%. Moderate severity was most frequent, and hypo- and hyperpigmentation were more common than erythema. HIV infection and abnormal glycemic levels occurred in 2.5%.

CONCLUSION

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a recurrent inflammatory dermatitis occurring predominantly among young adults in Lagos. It is often moderately severe, aggravated by exogenous factors, and causes patient embarrassment. Further research on SD is needed to develop more effective treatment modalities.