Background: Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is an inflammatory skin disorder in which colonies of Malassezia furfur have been found in affected areas.
Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of itraconazole in the treatment of severe SD.
Materials and methods: Itraconazole was given to 30 patients of SD in a dose of 100 mg twice daily for 1 week followed by 200 mg/day for first 2 days of the following 2 months. The response was noted on day 15, 30, 60, and 90. The clinical response was graded as markedly effective, effective, or ineffective.
Results: Clinical improvement (evaluated as markedly effective or effective) was observed in 83.3% cases.
Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory activity of oral itraconazole suggests that it should be the first-line therapy in severe SD.
Keywords: Seborrheic dermatitis; intermittent therapy; itraconazole; pityriosporum.