Milia
Pronunciation: MIL-ee-uh (singular: MIL-ee-um)
Small, keratin-filled epidermal cysts appearing as white or yellowish papules, most commonly around the eyes and on the nose.
Full Definition
Milia (singular: milium) are benign, superficial epidermal inclusion cysts containing lamellated keratin. They may be primary (arising spontaneously) or secondary (following blistering disorders, burns, or dermabrasion). In neonates, milia are a normal transient finding. Editors must be attentive to the singular/plural distinction: one 'milium,' multiple 'milia.' Clinical documents often erroneously pluralise as 'milias,' which is not accepted in standard dermatological nomenclature.
Usage
Usage note: Always use 'milium' for the singular and 'milia' for the plural. 'Milias' is a non-standard form that should be corrected on sight.
In Context
- "Multiple milia were noted periocularly; the patient was reassured that these were benign." — Clinic letter
- "The draft referred to 'milias,' which the editor corrected to the standard plural 'milia'." — Copy-editing note