Pityriasis alba : Clinical study for the possible aetiologic factors in patients attending outpatient clinics at Cairo university hospitals / Eman Mohamed Abdelsattar Abdelsadek ; Supervised Hanan Rabea Nada , Laila Ahmed Rashed , Ghada Mahmoud Khafagy

Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Family Medicine

Introduction: Pityriasis Alba (PA) is a common skin disorder in the age group (3-16) years and it has a bad psychological impact on both the child and the parents. Aim of the study: This study aimed to assess the risk factors that could be responsible for PA and its histopathological changes. Subjects and methods: This is a case control study included 110 participants (55 cases and 55 controls). Cases and controls were recruited from pediatric dermatology and family medicine clinics Cairo university hospitals. The two groups were matched in age and sex. Full history was taken and general and dermatological examination was done. Laboratory tests were done in the form of Stool analysis, urine analysis, blood analysis (Hb level and trace elements deficiencies). Skin biopsy was taken from 10 patients to assess the histopathological changes. Results: Regarding hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin, copper, zinc and magnesium they were significantly lower in PA group. The reduced Hb level increases the risk of PA by more than 9 folds (OR 9.6), zinc deficiency increased the risk by more than 15 folds. The personal history of skin atopy and family history of skin atopy increased the risk of PA by more than 5 folds (OR 5.7) and 4 folds with (OR 4.35) respectively. Histopathological changes in the skin of PA lesion were hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, and atrophic sebaceous glands. Conclusion: risk factors including sun exposure, zinc deficiency, reduced hemoglobin and skin phototype were the most significant risk factors affecting our study. Skin biopsy taken from PA lesions showed the features of a mild, chronic, nonspecific dermatitis

Issued also as CD