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Skin layers
Skin layers


Pityriasis alba

Definition:

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.



Signs and tests:



Treatment:

Symptoms are treated with special creams. The patches usually clear up, but may return.



Support Groups:



Expectations (prognosis):



Complications:



Calling your health care provider:



Prevention:




Review Date: 4/16/2007
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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