 Diaper Dermatitis
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Diaper dermatitis, commonly known as a diaper rash, is a term used to describe different skin rashes in your child's diaper area. The rash is usually red, scaling and, sometimes, ulcerated. It is most commonly seen in infants between the ages of 9 to 12 months, but may begin within the first 2 months of life.
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Possible contributors to diaper dermatitis include the following:
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- friction in the diaper area, such as with crawling or walking
- diaper material
- extended periods of time in a diaper containing urine and feces and/or failing to properly care for the skin in the diaper area
- irritating chemicals on the child's skin, such as detergents or topical medications
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There are different causes of diaper dermatitis, including the following:
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- candida diaper dermatitis - dermatitis caused by a fungal infection in the diaper area.
- contact diaper dermatitis - the most common cause of diaper dermatitis. The condition is usually caused by exposure to certain chemicals in combination with extreme heat or moisture, which can cause a breakdown of the skin.
- seborrheic diaper dermatitis - a common, chronic skin condition that can affect the diaper area as well as other locations on the body.
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Other less common causes of diaper dermatitis include the following:
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- impetigo - dermatitis caused by a bacterial infection.
- perianal streptococcal disease - dermatitis caused by a bacterial infection.
- allergic dermatitis - a type of dermatitis that is rare in the first 2 years of life, but may be caused by soaps and detergents.
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The symptoms of diaper dermatitis vary depending on the cause of the dermatitis, and may be different for each child that is affected. The following are common characteristics of the rash that may occur with each type of infection:
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- candida diaper dermatitis - this rash usually begins in the creases or folds of the thighs and in the diaper area, and then spreads. The rash is usually a deep, red, shiny rash with many oval lesions. The lesions may be pus-filled and have raised borders. This type of rash is often associated with thrush, a fungal infection in the baby's mouth.
- seborrheic diaper dermatitis - this rash also affects the skin folds in the groin area and is usually yellowish with oily scales that appear greasy. Infants may also have this rash on their face, scalp, or neck at the same time.
- contact diaper dermatitis - this rash is mostly seen on the buttocks and may extend to the thighs, stomach, and waist area, but does not generally involve folds in the area. The rash is usually red and shiny all over. However, normally, the rash does not have well defined lesions.
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The symptoms of diaper dermatitis may resemble other skin conditions. always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
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Diaper dermatitis is usually diagnosed based on a complete medical history and physical examination of your child. The rashes involved with diaper dermatitis are unique, and usually allow for a diagnosis simply on physical examination. In addition, your physician may do skin scraping to aid in the diagnosis.
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Treatment for diaper dermatitis will vary based on the cause of the dermatitis. Specific treatment for diaper dermatitis will also be determined by your physician based on:
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- your child's age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the disease
- your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the disease
- your opinion or preference
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Treatment may include:
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- medicated diaper cream (as prescribed by your child's physician)
- anti-inflammatory creams
- moisture-resistant diaper creams
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Proper skin care is also very important in preventing diaper dermatitis. This includes:
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- keeping the diaper area clean and dry.
- changing diapers frequently.
- allowing the diaper area to air dry at times.
- limiting the use of soap and other harsh cleaners in the diaper area.
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