Petaloid Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Variant Described Primarily in Skin of Color

Abstract

Petaloid seborrheic dermatitis is a distinct variant of seborrheic dermatitis most commonly affecting patients with skin of color. It is characterized by arcuate coalescing lesions with fine scale and a raised border that symmetrically expands over the course of weeks in a seborrheic distribution.  Two patients with extensive petaloid seborrheic dermatitis of the face are presented who quickly responded to a typical regimen for seborrheic dermatitis.  Recognition of petaloid seborrheic dermatitis will prevent misdiagnosis and improper treatment of this common condition.