Common Pediatric Skin Conditions

Common Pediatric Skin Conditions

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

• Chronic inflammatory condition
• Characteristics: dry, scaly, itchy skin
• Triggers: genetics, environmental factors, allergies
• Treatment: moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines

Acne

• Inflammatory condition caused by clogged pores
• Characteristics: blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts
• Treatment: topical retinoids, antibiotics, oral isotretinoin (for severe cases)

Birthmarks

• Vascular Birthmarks
  • Port wine stains: purple, pink, or red marks
  • Hemangiomas: benign growths, often appear at birth or in infancy
• Pigmented Birthmarks
  • Cafe-au-lait spots: light brown, coffee-colored marks
  • Mongolian spots: blue-gray marks, often on lower back or buttocks

Infections

• Bacterial Infections
  • Impetigo: contagious, crusty, itchy rash
  • Cellulitis: bacterial infection of skin and underlying tissue
• Viral Infections
  • Molluscum contagiosum: viral rash, often on face, arms, and legs
  • Warts: viral infection, often on hands or feet

Other Conditions

• Keratosis Pilaris: dry, rough skin, often on arms and legs
• Milia: small, white bumps on nose, chin, or cheeks
• Pityriasis Alba: mild, patchy skin condition, often on face

Diagnostic Techniques

• Physical examination
• Skin scraping or biopsy
• Wood's lamp examination (for fungal infections)
• Patch testing (for allergies)

Treatment Options

• Topical corticosteroids
• Topical antibiotics
• Moisturizers
• Oral antihistamines
• Oral antibiotics
• Phototherapy (for eczema, psoriasis)
• Laser therapy (for birthmarks, scars)