COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF ORAL FLUCONAZOLE AND ITRACONAZOLE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SEBORRHEICDERMATITIS: EFFICACY, SAFETY, AND QUALITY OF LIFE OUTCOMES

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a long-lasting inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, flaking, and itching, primarily impacting areas with a high density of sebaceous glands. The Malassezia species are regarded as significant factors in its development, making antifungal treatment a key element in management. Oral antifungal medications such as fluconazole and itraconazole are frequently utilized in cases that are moderate to severe or recurrent. This review was designed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness, safety, and quality-of-life outcomes linked to oral fluconazole and itraconazole pulse therapy in individuals with seborrheic dermatitis.Materials and Methods
A detailed review of the current literature was conducted, using peer-reviewed articles, clinical trials, systematic
reviews, and observational studies about the use of oral fluconazole and itraconazole in treating seborrheic dermatitis. The relevant studies were assessed with an emphasis on treatment effectiveness, recurrence rates, safety profiles, and quality-of-life outcomes measured with validated dermatological assessment tools like the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). RESULT Findings from the studies showed that both fluconazole and itraconazole significantly eased the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, including redness, flaking, and itching. Itraconazole pulse treatment consistently showed better long-term disease management, lower rates of recurrence, and greater improvements in quality-of-life assessments. Fluconazole appeared as a suitable and well-tolerated option, especially for patients who preferred easier dosing schedules or could not tolerate itraconazole. Both treatments had acceptable safety profiles, but itraconazole had a higher risk of drug interactions and liver toxicity, which required careful monitoring.
CONCLUSION
Both oral fluconazole and itraconazole work well for treating seborrheic dermatitis. However, research shows that
itraconazole pulse therapy offers better long-term results and improves patients' quality of life, especially for those
with severe or recurring cases. Fluconazole remains a good choice because of its tolerability and simple dosing. More
comparative clinical studies are needed to create standardized treatment guidelines.