Final answer:
The skin condition that causes scaly patches and red skin on the scalp is called psoriasis, a chronic disease where skin cells rapidly produce, leading to red, itchy, or sore patches with silvery scales.
The correct option is b. Psoriasis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The skin condition that causes scaly patches and red skin, mainly on the scalp, is known as psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease characterized by itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. While psoriasis can affect various parts of the body, including the elbows, knees, back, and face, it is often seen on the scalp. This skin disorder results from a complex interplay between skin cells and the immune system, leading to the rapid production and turnover of skin cells.
Other skin disorders such as eczema and seborrheic dermatitis also cause red, flaky rashes on the skin but present differently and require different treatments. Seborrheic dermatitis can cause moist, scaly skin inflammation, particularly on the scalp, but it is distinct from the plaques caused by psoriasis. Eczema, on the other hand, is an allergic reaction that can cause dry, itchy patches of skin that resemble rashes and is commonly managed with moisturizers and corticosteroid creams.