Keratosis Pilaris (chicken skin)

dry skin condition caused by keratin accumulation in the hair follicles.
The Latin term keratosis means ‘scaly skin’, and pilaris means ‘hair’.
starts in childhood but becomes more obvious during the teenage years and adulthood.
very common
harmless
not infectious
genetic association with autosomal dominant inheritance
prominent in the winter months and is likely due to the reduced moisture content of the air
no cure for keratosis pilaris, however, it often clears up during adult life
Any atrophy or scarring with hair loss may be permanent

Cause:

due to abnormal keratinisation of the upper portion lining of the hair follicle.
The keratin fills the follicle instead of exfoliating

Clinical Features

complain about the ‘goosebump’ or ‘chicken skin’ appearance of their skin.
small bumps can be skin-coloured, red, or brown
- bumps are usually the colour of the patient’s skin.
- However, they can present as red areas on white skin or brown/black on darker skin.
skin can feel rough, dry, and can occasionally be itchy.
Redness can also be found around many of the small bumps.
on the extensor surfaces of the upper arms and thighs. The buttocks, trunk, chest, face, and distal extremities can also be involved.
DDx:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Folliculitis
- Milia
- Phrynoderma due to nutritional deficiencies

complications:

Treatment: