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

• Baby Milia
• Milia in Newborn
• Pediatric Milium

What is Neonatal Milia? (Definition/Background Information)

• Neonatal Milium is a benign condition that presents as a small cyst under the skin surface, commonly on the face of a newborn. They are usually multiple in numbers, and hence, called Neonatal Milia
• This condition is present on over half of the newborns and is of no clinical significance. Neonatal Milia is accepted as a normal skin condition and there are no significant signs and symptoms associated with it
• There are no identified risk factors or causative factors for Neonatal or Pediatric Milia. Hence, the occurrence of these cysts cannot be prevented
• Neonatal Milia does not require any treatment and the condition is self-limiting. The prognosis is generally excellent, since these are benign cysts

Who gets Neonatal Milia? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Neonatal Milia is observed in newborn children. Statistically, almost 50% of the neonates may be affected
• It is seen in both boy babies and girl babies
• There is no known racial, ethnic, or geographical preference

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

• The risk factors for the development of Neonatal Milia are currently unknown

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 Neonatal Milia? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Neonatal Milia occurrence is presently unknown.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Neonatal Milia?

In majority of the cases, Neonatal Milia is asymptomatic and presents no significant signs or symptoms.

• Milia are multiple cysts that may be observed all over the body, but are usually present on the face
  • If the cysts appear on the mouth mucosa, they are called “Epstein Pearls”
  • If the cysts appear on the palate, they are called “Bohn’s Nodules”
• 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

How is Neonatal Milia Diagnosed?

• Neonatal 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

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 Neonatal Milia?

There are no significant complications that occur due to Neonatal Milia.

How is Neonatal Milia Treated?

Neonatal Milia is self-limiting and the cysts may regress and disappear within a month of birth. 

How can Neonatal Milia be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a way of preventing Neonatal Milia.

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

Neonatal Milia is an asymptomatic and benign skin condition that subsides on its own without the requirement for any treatment, within the first month of birth. It is of no clinical significance.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Neonatal Milia:

Milia can also be observed in children and adults (in a wide age range of individuals).