Differential Diagnosis for Oily Scalp
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Seborrheic dermatitis: This condition is characterized by an oily scalp, often accompanied by flaking, redness, and itching. It's a common condition that affects many people and is usually the first consideration for an oily scalp.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Dandruff: Similar to seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff causes flakes on the scalp but is more focused on the flakes themselves rather than the inflammation. It can also contribute to an oily appearance.
- Psoriasis: Scalp psoriasis can cause redness, itching, and flaking, and in some cases, an oily scalp due to the body's attempt to moisturize the affected area.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): This condition can cause the scalp to become oily, along with symptoms like itching, redness, and small bumps.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Malignant tumors (e.g., basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma): Although rare, these conditions can present with changes in the scalp, including oiliness, and are critical to diagnose early.
- Infections (e.g., fungal infections like ringworm): Certain infections can cause an oily scalp and are important to diagnose to prevent spread and complications.
- Rare diagnoses
- Hyperhidrosis: A condition characterized by excessive sweating, which can contribute to an oily scalp.
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B deficiency): Certain deficiencies can affect the skin and scalp, leading to oiliness among other symptoms.
- Keratosis pilaris: A condition that causes small bumps on the skin and can sometimes affect the scalp, leading to an oily appearance.