Causes and risk factors
Keratosis pilaris results from faulty skin formation producing excess of Keratin [a protein in skin], which plugs the opening of hair follicles, and starts building up there. This building up can restrict hair growth outwardly and ingrown hair can inflame the skin. Further it cause papular [rash with bumps] rash on skin. Exact cause for hyperkeratinisation [increased keratin deposition in skin] is not understood completely. Risk factors include positive family history and hence it is considered as an inherited skin disorder. It is more commonly found in twins and siblings. It is commonly associated with other skin conditions like Xerosis [condition causing very dry, scaly skin], atopic dermatitis, ichthyosis vulgaris etc.
Clinical presentation
Symptoms of this condition are in the form of typical skin eruptions. Characteristics of skin eruption in keratosis pilaris is a papular rash. It is presented as a very small, white, red or skin colored bumps. Itching or skin irritation is present occasionally. Texture of skin is dry and rough like sandpaper. Ingrown hair can be seen beneath the papules. Characteristic area of affection is upper outer arm. Other common areas of affection are buttocks, anterior thighs, and cheeks. Winter or low humidity in environment worsens the condition.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Positive family history confirms the diagnosis.
Treatment
As it is a genetic condition, there is no cure or effective treatment for keratosis pilaris. Being a harmless condition, it does not require medical attention. It can raise cosmetic concerns and affected person may want to get rid of the skin lesions. Treatment options like lotions with keratolytic ingredients, moisturizing lotions can improve mild forms of keratosis pilaris eruptions. Topical steroid creams can help reduce inflamed skin lesions. Intermittent topical retinoids, topical immunomodulators will also help in managing keratosis pilaris. Laser hair removal and other aggressive laser therapies contribute further to the treatment.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating keratosis pilaris. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating keratosis pilaris.
