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Seborrheic Dermatitis and Parkinson’s Disease

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The present review aims to analyze the most recent publications and theories associated with the increase of seborrheic dermatitis (SD) in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). An exhaustive review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and therapeutic interventions available for both pathologies was carried out.

Recent Findings

Several hypotheses were found. Hypomotility of facial muscles seems to be one of the determinant factors in early stages of the disease, as well as genetic polymorphism, in which lipid bioavailability is increased, both favoring an environment that favors Malassezia spp. proliferation.

Summary

Malassezia spp. is a constituent of the skin microbiome, but may become an opportunistic pathogen in situations of immunosuppression, as in the case of PD. The estimated population suffering from this condition is estimated to be around 6 million, showing a significant increase in the number of cases since the year 2000. The association of PD with SD is multifactorial and involves both endogenous and exogenous factors that provide an environment favorable for Malassezia spp. growth.

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Data Availability

All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article.

References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Lumbán-Ramírez, F., Lumbán-Ramírez, P., Yee, M.P. et al. Seborrheic Dermatitis and Parkinson’s Disease. Curr Fungal Infect Rep (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12281-024-00493-5

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