borrh[oe]a are sufficiently
characteristic to prevent error.

#What are the differential points?#

Eczema, psoriasis, and lupus erythematosus are diseases in which there
are distinct _inflammatory symptoms_, such as thickening and
infiltration and redness; moreover, psoriasis, and this holds true as to
ringworm also, occurs in sharply-defined, circumscribed patches, and
lupus erythematosus has a peculiar violaceous tint and an elevated and
marginate border. A microscopic examination of the epidermic scrapings
would be of crucial value in differentiating from ringworm.

Quite frequently, especially in the interscapular and sternal regions,
the segmental configuration constitutes an important feature of
seborrh[oe]a--of the eczema seborrhoicum variety.

#What is the prognosis in seborrh[oe]a?#

Favorable. All types are curable, and when upon the non-hairy regions,
usually readily so; upon the scalp it is often obstinate. Relapses are
not uncommon.

In those cases of seborrh[oe]a capitis which have been long-continued or
neglected, and attended with loss of hair, this loss may be more or less
permanent, although ordinarily much can be done to promote a regrowth
(see _Treatment of Alopecia_).

#How would you treat seborrh[oe]a of the scalp?#

By constitutional (if indicated) and local remedies; the former having
in view correction or modification of the predisposing factor or
factors, and the latter removal of the sebaceous accumulations and the
application of mildly stimulating antiseptic ointments or lotions.

#What constitutional remedies are commonly employed?#

The various tonics, such as iron, quinine, strychnia, cod-liver oil,
arsenic, the vegetable bitters, laxatives, malt and similar
preparations. The line of treatment is to be based upon indications.

#How do you free the scalp of the sebaceous accumulations?#

In mild types of the disease shampooing with simple Castile soap (or any
other good toilet soap) and hot water will suffice; in those cases in
which there is considerable scale-and crust-formation the tincture of
green soap (tinct. saponis viridis) is to be employed in place of the
toilet soap, and in some of these latter cases it may be necessary to
soften the crusts with a previous soaking with olive oil.

The frequency of the shampoo depends upon the conditions. In mild cases
once in five or ten days will be sufficiently frequent to keep the parts
clean, but in those cases in whi