A 3-month-old breastfed infant has a yellowish-red, greasy, scaly rash affecting the scalp (cradle cap), eyebrows, and nasolabial folds. The MOST likely diagnosis is:
- A Atopic dermatitis
- B Psoriasis
- C Seborrhoeic dermatitis ✓
- D Tinea capitis
Correct answer: C. Seborrhoeic dermatitis
Explanation
Infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis presents in the first 3 months of life with greasy, yellowish-white scales on the scalp (cradle cap), eyebrows, and nasolabial folds. It is caused by proliferation of Malassezia furfur yeast and sebaceous gland hyperactivity driven by maternal hormones. It is generally self-limiting and treated with gentle emollients and mild keratolytics. Atopic dermatitis typically appears after 2 months, is pruritic, and affects cheeks and extensor surfaces.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.