Pityriasis alba

Definition

Pityriasis alba is a common skin disorder similar to very mild eczema, causing round or oval, colorless, finely-scaled patches of skin. These patches usually occur on the cheeks.

The disorder is most common in children and adolescents. The cause is unknown. Symptoms are treated with special creams -- patches usually clear up, but may return.

Symptoms

• 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)
• Location -- face, outer upper arms, neck and upper trunk
• Lesions don't tan during the summer
• May redden quickly in the sun

Illustrations

Skin layers

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