What term describes the excessive secretion of sebum from the sebaceous glands?

The term that describes the excessive secretion of sebum from the sebaceous glands is seborrhea. Seborrhea is characterized by an overproduction of sebum, which can lead to oily skin and is often associated with conditions that affect the scalp, such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. In this context, the sebaceous glands produce more oil than normal, which can contribute to various skin issues, including a shiny appearance and potential inflammation.

Understanding this term is important in the field of pathophysiology, as it relates to skin health and the function of sebaceous glands. Seborrhea is a key term when discussing conditions that involve oil production and the skin's responses, highlighting the balance necessary for maintaining healthy skin. Other terms, like dermatitis, acne, and psoriasis, refer to different skin conditions or responses and do not specifically define the excessive oil production associated with seborrhea.