Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by a rounded, flaky scalp?

1. Excessive oiliness

2. Pityriasis

3. Scalp erythema

4. Seborrhea

The correct answer is: Pityriasis

Pityriasis is the correct answer because it refers specifically to a scalp condition that presents as flaking or scaling of the skin. This condition is often associated with dandruff, where the skin cells on the scalp die and flake off in large, rounded pieces, which can appear white or yellow. Pityriasis can be triggered by various factors, including dry skin, oily skin, or reaction to certain hair products. The other conditions mentioned are related to the scalp but present with different symptoms or characteristics. Excessive oiliness involves the production of too much sebum but does not specifically indicate flakiness or a rounded appearance. Scalp erythema refers to redness of the scalp skin often due to irritation or inflammation, and while there may be some scaling associated with it, the hallmark symptom is redness rather than flakiness. Seborrhea, while it involves excess oil and can lead to dandruff, is more about the sebaceous glands being overactive and may not strictly present with the rounded, flaky characteristics that are the hallmark of pityriasis.