Lecture 2 – Neonatal Dermatology PDF

Lecture 2 – Neonatal Dermatology COMMON FINDINGS Milia Milia are present in up to 50% of all newborns. Milia present as small (0.5 – 2 mm), white, dome-shaped papules (Figure 2.1) on the face and hard palate (they are called “Epstein’s Pearls” when found on the hard palate). There should not be...

Lecture 2 – Neonatal Dermatology COMMON FINDINGS Milia Milia are present in up to 50% of all newborns. Milia present as small (0.5 – 2 mm), white, dome-shaped papules (Figure 2.1) on the face and hard palate (they are called “Epstein’s Pearls” when found on the hard palate). There should not be any erythema surrounding the papule. They can be present at birth, and new milia can continue to develop for weeks or months after birth. Individual lesions spontaneously resolve, although new lesions may continue to develop as older lesions resolve. Pathologically, milia are small, keratin filled cysts in the very superficial dermis. Their exact etiology is unknown. Milia are considered a normal finding. They will spontaneously resolve without treatment, and new lesions will stop developing by several months of age. Parents should be reassured that no treatment is necessary. Further, parents should be educated that attempts to accelerate resolution of the milia (squeezing, scratching, popping, etc.) should be avoided, as they can only do harm. Sebaceous Hyperplasia Sebaceous hyperplasia is present in most newborns. This presents as innumerable, tiny (