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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Pityriasis Alba
What is pityriasis alba?
Pityriasis alba is a common skin condition in children.
Your child's skin has:
- patchy areas of lighter skin color on the face.
- patchy areas sometimes on the neck, upper part of the
chest, or arms.
- patches with borders that have a gradual change in the
amount of skin color with the lightest area of color in
the center.
Your doctor will rule out other skin diseases as the cause
of the light-colored skin.
What is the cause?
The cause of pityriasis alba is unknown. It may have to do
with dry skin or chemicals that come in contact with the
skin.
How long will it last?
The lighter patches of skin are more common in the summer,
but they can occur at any time of year. They usually last
for several weeks. The skin color then gradually returns to
normal. Pityriasis alba does not harm a child.
What is the treatment?
No treatment is necessary for the full skin color to return,
although skin lotions and moisturizers may help the skin
return to normal faster.
One percent hydrocortisone cream may help to make the
patches go away a little more quickly.
How can I help prevent the patches from returning?
Once the patches have returned to normal, use skin lotions
and moisturizers to help to decrease the chance that patches
will return. Do not use 1% hydrocortisone cream or other
topical steroid creams on the face for long periods of time
(months) without first talking with your child's doctor.
Call your physician during office hours if:
- You are not sure if your child has pityriasis alba.
- The patches of lighter skin are not following the
expected course.
- You have other questions or concerns.
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