Which describes seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects areas of the body where sebaceous glands are most active, such as the scalp, face, and upper back. It is characterized by greasy, yellowish flakes and can appear red and scaly. The presentation of greasy flakes is a key aspect of this condition, as they arise from the buildup of sebum, which is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands.

Importantly, seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious. Unlike conditions that present with pustules or are characterized by itchiness and round patches, seborrheic dermatitis does not spread from person to person and is often associated with factors like genetics, stress, and hormonal changes rather than infectious agents. Therefore, recognizing that seborrheic dermatitis is not contagious reinforces the importance of education on skin conditions and their proper management.

The other choices describe conditions that do not accurately reflect the characteristics of seborrheic dermatitis, which further underscores why the first description is the correct one. In summary, understanding the nature of seborrheic dermatitis helps in proper diagnosis and reassurance for affected individuals.