Scalp Itching

CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC MANUAL

Scalp itching is an uncomfortable sensation that prompts the need to scratch. It can be caused by various dermatological conditions, infections, allergic reactions, or even psychological factors.

Itching may be accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, scaling, and the appearance of lesions on the scalp. Identifying the underlying cause is important for appropriate treatment.

Pathology	Suspected Diagnosis	Confirmatory Diagnosis
Lice	Intense itching, presence of nits and lice on the scalp.	Physical examination, visualization of nits and lice.
Seborrheic eczema	Greasy, yellowish plaques, itching, scaling.	Physical examination, skin biopsy.
Psoriasis	Red plaques with silvery scales, itching, thickened skin.	Skin biopsy, physical examination.
Lichen simplex chronicus	Purple plaques, intense itching, thickened skin.	Skin biopsy, physical examination.
Allergic contact dermatitis	Redness, blisters, itching, history of allergen exposure.	Allergy tests, physical examination.
Fungal infection	Red plaques and scaling, itching, nail involvement.	Skin culture, skin scraping examination.
Herpes zoster	Painful unilateral rash, vesicles progressing to crusts.	Viral culture, PCR, physical examination.
Anxiety and depression	Itching without skin lesions, history of psychological disorders.	Psychological evaluation, medical history.