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Pityriasis alba

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Skin layers
Skin layers

Definition    Return to top

Pityriasis alba is a common skin disorder similar to very mild eczema.

Causes    Return to top

The cause is unknown. The disorder is most common in children and adolescents -- particularly in children with dark skin.

Symptoms    Return to top

Round or oval, colorless patches of skin appear on the face, upper arms, neck, and upper middle of the body. There may be flaky skin, called scales.

The patches don't tan, but may get red quickly in the sun.

Treatment    Return to top

Symptoms are treated with moisturizers and mild topical steroid creams. The patches usually clear up, but may return.

Update Date: 4/10/2009

Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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