Pityriasis Alba
Pityriasis alba is a mild form of dermatitis of unknown cause. It will clear up after a few months, or in some cases persist two or three years. The disorder is most common in children and adolescents. The colour gradually returns completely to normal. Pityriasis alba patches are more apparent in summer, especially in dark-skinned children, because they don't tan as well as the surrounding skin. These patches usually occur on the cheeks.
Pityriasis alba can also be confused with vitiligo. Pityriasis alba can be distinguished from vitiligo by the border of the rash. The rash of vitiligo has a very distinct border with a sharp line between normal and lighter-colored skin. Pityriasis alba is most noticeable in the summertime when the surrounding skin gets tanner, because it remains the same color.
Pityriasis Alba Cause
Here are the list of Pityriasis Alba Cause
- The rash appears to get worse when the skin is dry.
- In the winter months when the skin is drier, the rash may be flakier.
- eczema
- Pityriasis AlbaSymptom
- Here are the list of Pityriasis Alba Symptom
- Small white patches
- Round or oval
- Lighter than surrounding skin (hypopigmented)
- Flat (macular) or slightly elevated
- Slight scaling with very small fine scales (may be present)
Pityriasis AlbaTreatment
No treatment is necessary, but a moisturizing cream may improve the dry appearance. If the patches are red or itchy, a mild topical steroid cream can be applied for a few days.
The disorder is treated symptomatically with special creams -- patches usually clear, but may return.
How can I help prevent the patches from returning?
Once the patches have returned to normal, use skin lotions and moisturizers to help to decrease the chance that patches will return. Do not use 1% hydrocortisone cream on the face for long periods of time (months) without first talking with your child's doctor.
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