Pityriasis alba: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

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Pityriasis alba

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Skin layers

Eczema

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

Causes

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.

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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