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.

Images:

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
Lots More Information:
•Eczema
Review Date:7/22/2005
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.