Milia

Definition:

Milia are superficial inclusion cysts in the skin or mucous membranes.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Milia occur when dead, normally sloughed skin is trapped in small, very superficial, cystic structures in the skin or mucous membrane. Milia are seen frequently in newborn infants and appears as pearly white bumps (papules), most commonly across the upper cheeks, nose, and chin.

Irritation of the skin by rough sheets or clothing may cause mild reddening around the papule, but the central portion remains white. Irritated milia are sometimes incorrectly referred to as "baby acne" (although it is not actually a form of acne).

As the surface of the white pearly papule wears away, the trapped dead skin is lost, and the papule disappears. Milia generally disappear after the first several weeks of life.

This same type of cystic structure is seen on the gums and soft palate of newborn infants. In the mucous membranes, they are called Epstein's pearls. These lesions also disappear spontaneously.

Symptoms:

Whitish pearly papule in the skin of newborns typically across cheeks, nose, and chin
Whitish pearly appearing papules on gums or roof of mouth

Signs and tests:

Examination of the skin is usually sufficient to diagnose milia. No testing is necessary.

Treatment:

No treatment is indicated.

Expectations (prognosis):

Lesions disappear spontaneously without treatment and without any residual defect.

Complications:

There are usually no complications.

Calling your health care provider:

If you are concerned about milia, discuss it with your health care provider during a routine well-baby examination.

Prevention:

There is no known prevention.

Review Date: 10/28/2001
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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