Keratosis Pilaris - Close-Up

Keratosis pilaris is seen most commonly during childhood and presents as small, rough, raised lesions (papules). These papules are described as "spiny and keratotic" and are typically skin colored. The papules are usually found on the outer surface of the upper arms and thighs, although it may occur elsewhere on the body. The roughness is accentuated by dry skin and the condition is often worse in the winter. It tends to be inherited and may be associated with atopic dermatitis.

Atopic Dermatitis

The term "dermatitis" describes an inflammatory response of the skin, caused by contact with allergens or irritants, exposure to sunlight, or by poor circulation, even stress. An example of atopic dermatitis is eczema, an itchy rash that produces redness, blisters and scaling. AVOID SCRATCHING. Scratching the rash may spread the inflammation, lead to infection and even leave scars.

Atopy on the Ankles

Atopic dermatitis occurs in individuals with tendencies towards allergies and who seem to have very sensitive skin. The persistent itching often encourages scratching, causing the skin to become raw or leathery. Here, the ankles and feet are affected.

Dermatitis, Atopic on the Arms

This person has inherited allergic skin inflammation (atopic dermatitis) on the arms. Red (erythematous), scaly plaques can be seen on the inside of the elbows (antecubital fossa). In adults, atopic dermatitis usually involves the body creases, or flexural areas (antecubital fossa and popliteal fossa).

Dermatitis, Atopic in An Infant

Atopic dermatitis is quite often seen on the cheeks of infants. It consists of red (erythematous), scaling plaques that are diffusely scattered over the infant's body and face.

Hyperlinearity in Atopic Dermatitis, on the Palm

This picture shows a manifestation of atopic dermatitis on the palm. Individuals with atopic dermatitis characteristically have increased numbers and depth of skin lines (hyperlinearity) on the palms with little redness (erythema).

Eczema, Atopic - Close-Up

This view shows the red (erythematous) scaly patches (plaques) characteristic of atopic dermatitis.

Dermatitis, Atopic on a Young Girl's Face

Lupus erythematosis often produces a "butterfly rash" or malar rash, seen here on a young girl's face. This is the characteristic appearance of the butterfly rash.

Keratosis Pilaris on the Cheek

Keratosis pilaris occurs most commonly during childhood and produces small, rough spots (papules) that are typically skin-colored. They usually appear over the outer surface of the upper arms and thighs, but may also occur elsewhere on the body. Dry skin (especially during winter months) makes the condition worse. Keratosis pilaris tends to be inherited and may be associated with atopic dermatitis.

Dermatitis, Atopic on the Legs

These red (erythematous), scaly plaques on the legs are caused by an inherited allergic condition called atopic dermatitis. Many of these areas have been scratched until they are raw and infected, with the infection triggering and perpetuating the problem. In adults, atopic dermatitis frequently involves the body creases (inside elbows, behind knees).

Hyperlinearity in Atopic Dermatitis

People with atopic dermatitis frequently have thickening of the skin on the palms and soles with an increase in the number of lines in the skin (hyperlinearity). This characteristic is closely associated with genetic predisposition (atopy ).