Word parts
What it means
A skin condition that affects areas with many oil glands: the scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears and the middle of the chest. It causes red patches with greasy yellow or white scales and can itch. Mild scalp flaking is dandruff, and in babies the same condition on the scalp is called cradle cap. It comes and goes and often flares with stress or cold, dry weather.
For the nurse
Teach regular washing with a medicated shampoo as ordered. For cradle cap, teach parents to soften the scales with a little baby oil, then wash and gently brush them away, never picking at them.
At a glance
| Everyday words | dandruff; cradle cap in babies |
|---|---|
| Spanish | dermatitis seborreica |
| Also written | seborrhoeic dermatitis |