Pityriasis Amiantacea - How To Diagnose It?

Pityriasis amiantacea is a disorder of the scalp. Some of the visible signs of this condition include adherent, silver, thick scales. The scales resemble the color of the asbestos and often surrounds the tufts of hair. While the condition is manageable, care should be taken to manage this condition right from its inception. Here is a brief overview of this scalp condition.

Origin of Pityriasis Amiantacea:
Pityriasis Amiantacea is inflammatory in nature. It comes from the seborrheic and psoriasis dermatitis spectrum. Experts are of the view that this condition is a result of the exaggerated response of the body to a primary condition of the scalp. Earlier studies have suggested that there is a possibility that Pityriasis Amiantacea may have originated from lichen planus, pyogenic infection and superficial fungal. In most of the cases, it has been witnessed that fungus has a close relation to this condition.

Exposure of Pityriasis Amiantacea and its diagnosis:
This condition has low exposure among females. It is mostly observed among, young adults, children, and adolescents. The diagnosis is done clinically. A specialist might prescribe dermoscopy to rule out other conditions of the scalp. If the result is positive, the scaling will reveal a diffused yellowish or whitish pattern. While the condition is local, it has all the possibilities to spread to other hairy parts of the body. Some experts are of the view that Pityriasis Amiantacea has a close association with temporary alopecia. While histopathology is not prescribed by most doctors, however, biopsy of the scalp is suggested in many cases.

Does Pityriasis Amiantacea result in hair loss?
The answer is yes. As a result of the scaly crust, the encased hair tends to fall. This being said, it is entirely a reversible condition. The hair comes back in 9 out of 10 cases. Medical ointments and antibiotic shampoo can help to grow back the lost hair. Apart from this, home-made protein solutions can help in the regeneration of the hair and get back the original color of the hair.

Treatment options:
This is a treatable condition that might take some time for a complete cure. It involves the keratolytic and tropical anti-inflammatory treatment. This is accompanied with salicylic ointment and topical corticosteroids. A tropical mineral oil is often prescribed by doctors to ensure that the adherent scales are removed. Some doctors might also suggest a clobetasol propionate shampoo. Even ketoconazole and silver sulfadiazine is helpful to get rid of the scales. If in case the infection is accompanied with Staphylococcus aureus, antibiotics are prescribed to ensure that the condition does not turn from bad to worse. Systematic therapies are suggested if this condition is accompanied by an underlying condition such as psoriasis.