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Pityriasis alba - All Information

Definition of Pityriasis alba:

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

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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

Symptoms:

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:

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

Skin layers

Reviewed last on: 4/10/2009
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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