Pityriasis Alba

Pityriasis alba

       Pityriasis alba is an illness usually seen in children between 3 and 16 years, that affects the skin. It is commonly characterized by patches of dry, scaled skin which appear on the face. The name comes from the white scaly aspect that the skin takes - pityriasis - scale, alba-the Latin term for white. The color of the patient's skin is also important, the disease being more frequent in white people, usually male.

       The main cause of this ailment is not known. The rash becomes more prominent in winter, because the skin tends to get dry. Dermatologists consider it a milder form of the affliction named eczema. During the summer, the face skin tans and the contrast is much more visible. Once the disease triggered, lesions will appear on the surface of the skin. First they will be red, but quite unnoticeable. They will also be raised, in comparison with the surrounding tissue. In the second phase, they will become pale and then smooth. The dimensions are not large, around 1-2 cm if they occur on the face and larger if they appear on upper arms, shoulders or neck. Their number does no exceed 20 and present fine scales.

       In the first steps of the differential diagnosis, pityriasis alba can be mistaken with vitiligo or tinea. There is no special treatment needed for this disease, but the itch and the scales can be improved with hydrocortisone or other emollients.