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Dermatology  (Expert Forum)
 | 
Scalp Irritation
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center Brookline - MA
Welcome to the DERMATOLOGY FORUM! Questions in this forum are answered by Dermatologists from St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital, under the direction of Andrew Alexis, M.D., M.P.H.

Scalp Irritation

by Jonathan, May 02, 2000 12:00AM
Dr. R:

I have a problem with recurrent small pustules on my scalp.  It is sort of like acne, except I do not have any acne on my face or other areas.  They tend to form on the sides and back of my head but are not limited to those areas.  They tend to go away with time.  Usually, a small amount of pus can be expressed from the eruptions when they form a "head".  My father also has this problem.

I believe this my be seborrheic dermatitis.  I have tried a tar containing shampoo (Neutrogena T-Gel) which hasn't helped.  Any suggestions?

Thank you.

by Alan Rockoff, MD, May 03, 2000 12:00AM
Jonathan:

Actual pustules on the scalp generally are not seborrheic dermatitis.  They are either infectious (staph) and require antibiotics, or else they are strss-related, perhaps from picking and squeezing.  They aren't usually hereditary, in my experience.  I'd see a dermatologist for culture and definitive diagnosis.

Best.

Dr. R
Member Comments (2)

by DOLORES, May 20, 2000 12:00AM
Does your scalp turn black and peel?  My son has had this problem for a couple of years now, and is gradually spreading.

by paddypaws, Jul 15, 2008 10:27AM
A related discussion, scalp irritation was started.

by abigail321, Sep 29, 2008 07:11AM
A related discussion, scalp irritation was started.
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