Dry/scaly/dark patches on nose and face joints. similar spots on ear external canal

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I have dark scaly patch on my nose /face joint (seborrheic dermatitis) using " Ketoconazole  cream" But  recently noticed dark scaly patches on my ear canal , it looks like "seborrheic dermatitis" but not a single line/patch, its like individual spots.

i started to use " Ketoconazole  cream" on ears area its improving better now.
But i need to use 3 to 4 days in 2 weeks.otherwise dry-scaly patch will start again.
So tell me,
>"seborrheic dermatitis" is common infection on nose/face joints&ear canal ?
> is that "seborrheic dermatitis" or something else?
>How long do i need to use Ketoconazole  cream ? or any other stronger cream?
>is it common symptom for individual/dark/oily skin?
>Some forum says, HIV people affected with this infection do i need any HIV test? ( i'm not active in sex in past 2 years)

I'm So confused looking forward your answer!!!!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is believed to be an inflammatory reaction related to the proliferation of normal skin habitant Malassezia – a yeast, which produces toxic substances that infect and irate the skin. The disease is neither contagious nor related with diet but it may be aggravated by other illness like Psychological stress, immune compromised patients, neurological diseases like Parkinsonism and stroke.

Treatment usually involves use of antifungal, anti inflammatory and sebo suppressive or Keratolytic ingredients. Dermatologist also recommends the use of photodynamic therapy which involves the usage of UV- A, UV- B laser and red or blue LED light to inhibit the growth of the yeast and reduces the inflammation. If symptoms do not improve with ketoconazole then these treatment options can be planned.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.