A 3-month-old infant has erythematous patches with greasy scales over the scalp, nasolabial folds, postauricular region and diaper area. The most likely diagnosis is:

• A Infantile atopic dermatitis
• B Seborrhoeic dermatitis ✓
• C Tinea capitis
• D Psoriasis

Explanation

Seborrhoeic dermatitis in infancy (cradle cap) presents in the first 3 months with greasy yellowish scales over the scalp (cradle cap), and can extend to involve the nasolabial folds, retroauricular areas and diaper region. It is associated with Malassezia yeast proliferation in sebum-rich areas. It is generally not pruritic and does not disturb the infant — distinguishing it from atopic dermatitis (which is pruritic, affects the cheeks and extensor surfaces). Tinea capitis causes scaling with hair loss. Psoriasis in infants affects the diaper area but has well-demarcated silvery plaques.

Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.