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Keratosis pilaris on the cheek
Keratosis pilaris on the cheek
Keratosis pilaris rubra faceii
Keratosis pilaris rubra faceii
Keratosis pilaris rubra faceii
Keratosis pilaris rubra faceii
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Keratosis pilaris

Definition:
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition in which keratin, a protein in the skin, forms hard plugs within hair follicles.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In mild cases, small bumps, similar in appearance to "goose bumps," experienced when cold or frightened, are found on the posterior portion of the upper arms. The texture is that of very coarse sandpaper.

Bumps may also appear on the buttocks and thighs. Less commonly, lesions on the face are found, often mistaken for acne. Individual lesions consist of a small, skin-colored papules which form within hair openings. The condition is generally worse in winter and often clears in the summer.

The condition is benign, self-limiting, and often disappears with increasing age.

It is more common in patients with atopic dermatitis (eczema) and seems to run in families.



Review Date: 7/13/2002
Reviewed By: Glen H. Crawford, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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