Uncommon Petaloid Form of Seborrheic Dermatitis Seen in Fitzpatrick Skin Types V-VI

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Dermatopathology

Background:

• Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is an inflammatory condition affecting sebaceous gland-rich areas.
• Petaloid SD is a rare variant presenting as hypopigmented or pink rings/patches, primarily in individuals with darker skin (Fitzpatrick Skin types V-VI).
• Limited dermatological literature and textbook representation exist for petaloid SD, particularly in diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the presentation of petaloid seborrheic dermatitis in an African American patient.
• To contribute to the scarce literature on dermatological conditions affecting darker skin types.
• To illustrate a successful treatment course for petaloid SD in a patient with Fitzpatrick skin type V-VI.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a 25-year-old African American female with asymptomatic hypopigmented rashes.
• Diagnosis of petaloid seborrheic dermatitis based on clinical presentation.
• Treatment regimen included ketoconazole shampoo, ketoconazole cream, and hydrocortisone ointment.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with hypopigmented rashes on the face, scalp, and chest.
• The diagnosis of petaloid seborrheic dermatitis was established.
• Significant improvement in rashes was observed after six weeks of treatment.

Conclusions:

• Petaloid SD predominantly affects individuals with darker skin tones.
• Standard seborrheic dermatitis treatments are effective for the petaloid variant.
• Further exploration of skincare and haircare practices tailored to the African American population with petaloid SD is warranted.