DermNetPityriasis Alba

Pityriasis Alba: A Common Childhood Dermatosis with Potential Links to Atopic Dermatitis

Pityriasis alba is a mild, self-limiting skin condition primarily affecting children and adolescents. Although its exact etiology remains unclear, its association with dry skin and atopic dermatitis suggests potential shared pathophysiological mechanisms. This condition presents unique challenges in diagnosis and management, particularly due to its variable presentation across different skin tones and seasonal changes.

Key Points:

• Definition:
  • Mild form of eczema/dermatitis
  • Characterized by pale, slightly scaly patches on the skin
• Epidemiology:
  • Affects 5% of children worldwide
  • Most common in ages 3-16 years
  • Equally affects boys and girls
  • More noticeable in darker skin tones
• Clinical Presentation:
  • 1-20 patches, 0.5-5 cm in diameter
  • Primarily affects face, neck, shoulders, and upper arms
  • Minimal or no itching
  • Hypopigmentation more visible in summer
  • Dryness and scaling more noticeable in winter
• Diagnosis:
  • Typically a clinical diagnosis
  • Wood lamp examination and skin biopsy may be used to exclude other conditions
• Treatment:
  • Often resolves without intervention
  • Moisturizing creams for dryness
  • Mild topical steroids or calcineurin inhibitors if needed
• Prognosis:
  • Usually clears within 1 year, can last up to 2-3 years
  • Skin color typically returns to normal

Additional Points:

• Potential contributing factors:
  • Sun exposure
  • Bathing habits
  • Serum copper and trace element levels
  • Malassezia yeasts
• Prevention:
  • Regular use of sunscreen may reduce development or prominence

HCN Healer Handbook
“Your child’s light patches are likely pityriasis alba, a common and harmless skin condition. It often appears on the face and arms, and may become more noticeable after sun exposure or in dry weather. Although we don’t know the exact cause, it’s frequently seen in children with dry skin or eczema. Treatment isn’t always needed, but moisturizers can help with dryness. The patches typically disappear on their own within a year or two, with skin color returning to normal. Using sunscreen regularly can help prevent it. This condition doesn’t affect your child’s overall health, but if you notice any changes or have concerns, please come back for a check-up. With proper care, we can manage this effectively.”

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