Epidemiological, Clinical, and Mycological Aspects of Pityriasis Capitis among Patients Attending the Dermatology Department of the Libreville University Hospital Center, Gabon
Charles Vianet Minaël Tchibinda Delicat *
Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Health Sciences (USS), Libreville, Gabon and Department of Dermatology, Libreville University Hospital Center (CHUL), Libreville, Gabon.
Roger Hadry Sibi Matotou
Department of Parasitology, Mycology and Tropical Medicine, University of Health Sciences (USS), BP 4009 Libreville, Gabon.
Stephanie Ntsame Ngoua
Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Health Sciences (USS), Libreville, Gabon and Department of Dermatology, Libreville University Hospital Center (CHUL), Libreville, Gabon.
Arsène Mounomby
Department of Parasitology, Mycology and Tropical Medicine, University of Health Sciences (USS), BP 4009 Libreville, Gabon
Amadride Fallon Ngouele
Department of Dermatology, Libreville University Hospital Center (CHUL), Libreville, Gabon.
Solange Andeme Afene Nzenzet
Department of Parasitology, Mycology and Tropical Medicine, University of Health Sciences (USS), BP 4009 Libreville, Gabon.
Boubacar Ahy Diatta
Dermatology Department, Aristide Le Dantec Hospital, Dakar, Senegal.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Pityriasis capitis, commonly known as dandruff, is a common dermatological disorder affecting the scalp worldwide. Although generally considered a benign condition, its recurrent nature and impact on quality of life make it a common reason for dermatology consultations.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Dermatology Department of the Libreville University Hospital Center (CHUL) from 12 October 2024 to 20 October 2025. Patients presenting with suspected fungal scalp infections were enrolled. Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, and predisposing factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were entered into Microsoft Excel 2016 and analysed using SPSS version 20 (IBM Corp., USA).
Results: Among the 1,982 patients who attended the Dermatology Department during the study period, 199 were diagnosed with pityriasis capitis, yielding a prevalence of 10.04%. The largest age group was 21–30 years, accounting for 43.2% of cases. Most patients were single (95.0%). Pruritus (97.5%) and powdery scales (94.5%) were the predominant clinical manifestations. Psychological factors, particularly stress, fatigue and anxiety, were the main reported factors associated with dandruff.
Conclusion: Pityriasis capitis remains a common dermatological condition because of its recurrent nature and its negative effects on patients’ comfort, self-confidence and self-esteem. Greater attention to modifiable attitudes and behaviours may contribute to improved prevention and management.
Keywords: Pityriasis capitis, epidemiology, clinical aspects, dermatology, Libreville/Gabon