Oral itraconazole for the treatment of severe seborrhoeic dermatitis.

BACKGROUND

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is an inflammatory skin disorder in which colonies of Malassezia furfur have been found in affected areas.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of itraconazole in the treatment of severe SD.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Itraconazole was given to 30 patients of SD in a dose of 100 mg twice daily for 1 week followed by 200 mg/day for first 2 days of the following 2 months. The response was noted on day 15, 30, 60, and 90. The clinical response was graded as markedly effective, effective, or ineffective.

RESULTS

Clinical improvement (evaluated as markedly effective or effective) was observed in 83.3% cases.

CONCLUSION

The anti-inflammatory activity of oral itraconazole suggests that it should be the first-line therapy in severe SD.