What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Milium
• Milium Cyst

What are Milia? (Definition/Background Information)

• Milium is a benign condition that presents as a small cyst under the skin surface, commonly on the face
• These cysts can occur in individuals of any age group and gender. They are usually multiple in numbers, and hence, called Milia (plural of Milium)
• There are no significant signs and symptoms associated with Milia, although they may not be cosmetically appealing, particularly if they occur on the face
• There are no identified risk factors or causative factors for Milia, in a majority of the cases. Hence, the occurrence of these cysts cannot be frequently prevented
• Milia may not require any treatment in most cases. Also, in a majority of individuals, it may disappear spontaneously on its own. However, if treatment is necessary, the options may include topical creams, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and dermabrasion
• The prognosis is generally excellent for Milia, since these are benign cysts

There are several different types of Milia, which include:

• Neonatal Milia
• Primary Milia in Children and Adults
• Juvenile Milia
• Milia en Plaque
• Traumatic Milia
• Drug-Induced Milia
• Multiple Eruptive Milia

Who gets Milia? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Milia can be observed in a wide age range of individuals, including newborns, children, and adults
• Both males and females are affected
• There is no known racial, ethnic, or geographical preference

What are the Risk Factors for Milia? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors for the development of certain types of Milia are currently unknown
• However, some occur due to medications, trauma, or secondary to certain health conditions - all affecting the skin

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Milia? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Milia formation is unknown in most cases
  • If the cause is not identified, then it is called Primary Milia. It is observed in individuals of all ages
  • If the cause is identified, then it is called Secondary Milia. It is commonly observed in adults, though children may also be affected
• Secondary Milia occur due to the usage of certain drugs or creams, injury and burns, following certain procedures, or disorders such as lichen planus, bullous pemphigoid, or contact dermatitis
• Milia is not an infectious condition and it does not spread from one individual to another through direct or indirect contact
• It has not been observed that dietary factors contribute to the development of this condition

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Milia?

In majority of the cases, Milia are asymptomatic and present no significant signs or symptoms. However, this depends on the type of Milia too.

The signs and symptoms may include the following:

• Milia are multiple cysts that may be observed all over the body, but are usually present on the face, especially on the eyelids, upper cheeks, and nose
• These cysts are small and occur just below the skin; the surface appears as pearly white bumps
• Each cyst may be between 1-2 mm in size
• Solitary cysts are not commonly observed
• There may be itching sensation on the affected region

There may be signs and symptoms of the underlying health condition too (if any present).

How are Milia Diagnosed?

• Milia may be diagnosed based on their presentation and a clinical examination
• The examination of the skin by a dermatologist using a special magnified lens (dermoscopy) may be undertaken
• Mostly, there is no necessity for a skin biopsy to diagnose the condition. However, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions with similar signs and symptoms
• Specific tests may be undertaken based on the particular type of Milia

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Milia?

There are no significant complications that occur due to Milia.

• Nevertheless, some individuals face cosmetic issues due to the appearance of multiple cysts (frequently on the face), in which case an appropriate treatment may be recommended
• Complications can arise from an underlying skin disorder (if present)

How are Milia Treated?

The treatment measures for Milia may include the following:

• Topical retinoids
• Laser ablation therapy
• Cryotherapy
• Chemical peels
• Dermabrasion
• Administration of antibiotics (such as tetracycline) in some cases
• Treatment for any underlying illnesses

In many individuals, the condition is self-limiting and the cysts may regress and disappear within a few weeks. Also, no treatment may be necessary in a majority of individuals, since Milia is a benign condition with no serious signs and symptoms.

How can Milia be Prevented?

There are many different types of Milia. Current medical research has not established a way of preventing most types of Milia. However, the following may be observed:

• If it is caused by certain underlying disorders, then treating the underlying condition may be beneficial
• Medications and topical creams that cause Milia may be discontinued or alternative medications used instead
• Prompt treatment of any trauma may help control the onset of Milia

What is the Prognosis of Milia? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• In a majority of cases, Milia are asymptomatic or mild that subsides on its own without the requirement for any treatment, within a few weeks or months. However, the healthcare provider may undertake to regularly monitor the condition
• In a majority, the prognosis is generally excellent with suitable treatment
• The outcome of Secondary Milia may be based upon the condition that led to its onset

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Milia:

• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• Scratching the affected areas or picking the cysts must be completely avoided