Contents
March 2014
in “
Pediatric Clinics of North America
”
TLDR The document discusses how to identify and manage common skin conditions in children.
The document provides an overview of various pediatric dermatological conditions and their management. Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects up to 20% of children in the U.S. and is a chronic condition with intense itching, managed but not cured by treatment. Psoriasis, also increasing in prevalence, is managed with topical treatments for most mild to moderate cases. Pediatric melanoma, while rare, presents challenges in managing pigmented lesions in children. Nail disorders, morphea (localized scleroderma), and cutaneous vasculitis are also discussed, with emphasis on diagnosis and when to refer to specialists. Vitiligo is considered an autoimmune disorder with half of the cases starting in childhood. Diaper dermatitis is common in infancy and usually resolves with conservative management. Propranolol is the preferred first-line therapy for infantile hemangiomas. Cutaneous adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a significant pediatric health problem, with most being mild and resolving upon withdrawal of the drug. Alopecia in children can be caused by various factors, including tinea capitis, alopecia areata, traction alopecia, telogen effluvium, and trichotillomania, with some types being related to underlying medical problems. Superficial fungal infections are common and can involve hair, skin, and nails, often caused by dermatophytes. Lastly, bacterial infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes are common in children, with management including prompt recognition, appropriate therapy, and in some cases, incision and drainage for abscesses.