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.
Review Date: 10/10/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of
Medicine. Also reviewed by Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center
for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Also reviewed by David
Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
