Greasy yellow scales on the chest and face are most consistent with which condition?

• A. Psoriasis
• B. Eczema
• C. Tinea versicolor
• D. Seborrheic dermatitis

Answer: (D)

Greasy yellow scales in sebaceous-rich areas point to seborrheic dermatitis. This condition tends to affect the scalp, face (especially around the nose and eyebrows), and chest, producing oily, yellowish scales that cling to the skin. It’s thought to involve a reaction to Malassezia yeast in oily skin.

Psoriasis would more commonly show thick, well-demarcated plaques with silvery scales on extensor surfaces or the scalp, not the greasy look confined to sebaceous areas. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) usually presents with itchy, dry, inflamed skin and flexural changes rather than greasy scales. Tinea versicolor causes lighter or darker patches with fine scaling on the trunk rather than the facial/chest greasy scales typical of seborrheic dermatitis.