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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes A White Patch On The Hip Area In A Child?

Hi, my 3.5 months old daughter has developed a white patch on her upper thigh/hip area, I ve seen her ped. for that, but she seemed not convinced it s a patch, she thinks it s from the skin folds - but anyhow she recommended that I check with a ped. neuro (since I voiced my concerns that I ve also noticed my daughter won t sleep at all these days except screaming and having these seizure like movements!) my question is: what this white patch could be? rather than a physical illness related to seizures?
posted on Thu, 13 Mar 2014
Twitter Wed, 6 May 2020 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 8 May 2020 Last reviewed on
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Pediatrician,  's  Response
Hello,

White patches on babies are not unusual. The cause can depend on a lot of things. When you look at the patch is it white because it is scaly or white because there is a loss of pigment?

Most often, it's pityriasis alba, a fancy medical term for a white spot! Most likely on the cheeks, but I've seen them everywhere. Also, friction can cause an area of whiteness in comparison to other skin.

Sometimes it's a birthmark that has enlarged and become noticeable as the baby grows. But there are some more concerning white spots.

Much less likely, but possible, is a depigmented white spot called an "ash leaf" spot because it is irregular, mostly oval and shaggy-edged.

This can be indicative of a very very rare disease called Tuberous sclerosis. This can be related to seizures, so I'm glad you're already scheduled to see a Neurologist. So while you're there, ask them to take a look at the white patch so they can tell you if it is just normal or not.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr. Lisa Baker
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What Causes A White Patch On The Hip Area In A Child?

Hello, White patches on babies are not unusual. The cause can depend on a lot of things. When you look at the patch is it white because it is scaly or white because there is a loss of pigment? Most often, it s pityriasis alba, a fancy medical term for a white spot! Most likely on the cheeks, but I ve seen them everywhere. Also, friction can cause an area of whiteness in comparison to other skin. Sometimes it s a birthmark that has enlarged and become noticeable as the baby grows. But there are some more concerning white spots. Much less likely, but possible, is a depigmented white spot called an ash leaf spot because it is irregular, mostly oval and shaggy-edged. This can be indicative of a very very rare disease called Tuberous sclerosis. This can be related to seizures, so I m glad you re already scheduled to see a Neurologist. So while you re there, ask them to take a look at the white patch so they can tell you if it is just normal or not. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr. Lisa Baker