What Are the Causes of Keratosis Pilaris and How to Diagnose?
Keratosis pilaris is a benign skin disorder that occurs due to the accumulation of keratin [6], a hair protein, in the pores. The accumulation of keratin in your skin clogs in the pores and blocks the opening of developing hair follicles. This then leads to the development of a small bump over the area where the hair should be. If you try picking the numb, you will notice a small body hair come out.
While the exact cause of keratin accumulation is unknown, doctors believe it may be caused by certain skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and genetic diseases.
The diagnostic processes involved in detecting keratosis pilaris depend on a physical exam and medical history. Your dermatologist will confirm the diagnosis by looking at the affected region. Factors that your healthcare provider considers during diagnosis include:
- Your age
- What it looks like
- Which areas it affects
There is no known formal testing that helps confirm the diagnosis.