Background:
Milia is a benign self-limiting
rash that presents itself as tiny white bumps on
the forehead, nose, upper lip, and cheeks of the
newborn.
Pathophysiology:
Milia is seen as small
multiple cysts ranging from 1-2 mm in diameter.
Histologically, these cysts are multiple
superficial inclusion cysts containing keratin,
surrounded by a dense lymphocytic infiltrate. No
visible opening is seen.
Frequency:
- In the US:
Approximately 40% of
newborn infants develop milia. This condition is
mainly associated with newborns carried to full
term or nearly to term. Typically, rash appears
after 4-5 days in full-term newborns. Infants
born prematurely are less commonly affected.
Manifestations of milia may be delayed from days
to weeks in infants born before term.
Race:
No ethnic predilection is observed.
Sex:
No sexual predilection exists.
Age:
Rash appears in neonates 1-2 days
after birth. It can be delayed for days to weeks
in neonates born prematurely.
