Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D and Zinc Deficiencies on Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Comparative Study

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects patients' quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests that vitamin and mineral deficiencies may contribute to its progression, although the exact etiology remains unclear.

This case-control study assessed the serum levels of vitamin D and zinc in SD patients compared to a healthy control group, with a focus on how these deficiencies relate to disease severity.

A total of 71 SD patients and 71 healthy controls participated, providing demographic data and blood samples. Disease severity was evaluated using the SEDASI scoring system. Serum vitamin D and zinc levels were measured using ELISA and photometric methods, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using t-tests and chi-square tests in SPSS 24, with groups matched for demographic variables (p > 0.05).

Findings revealed no significant difference in vitamin D levels between SD patients and the control group (p = 0.066). However, zinc levels were notably lower in the SD group (p = 0.001). Additionally, vitamin D levels were inversely related to the severity of SD (p = 0.022), while no correlation was found between zinc levels and disease severity (p = 0.664).

Zinc deficiency appears to play a role in SD pathogenesis, while lower vitamin D levels are associated with increased disease severity. These findings highlight the need for further research into the potential therapeutic role of nutrient supplementation in managing SD.