Understanding common toddler skin conditions

In the first blog post of this series, we focused on skin conditions that typically affect infants. This installment will help you to understand common skin conditions that occur in toddlers and how to diagnosis them.

Impetigo, Common Toddler Skin ConditionsImpetigo
Impetigo is one of the most common skin infections among kids. It typically causes blisters or sores on the face, neck and hands. Children who have had other skin conditions including eczema, poison ivy, insect bites, and cuts or scrapes may be more likely to develop impetigo.

There are two types of impetigo: crusted and large blisters. The crusted impetigo is the most common. It usually starts as tiny blisters that eventually burst and leave wet patches of red skin. As time passes, a tan crust will cover the affected area. The large blisters appear clear, then cloudy. They are more likely to stay around longer on the skin without bursting.

If the impetigo only affects a small area of the skin, it is usually treated with antibiotic ointment. But if that does not work, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic that will help it to clear up quicker.

Tinea corporis infection (ring worm)Ringworm
Despite its name, ringworm has nothing to do with worms. It is actually a contagious fungal infection of the skin. The rash develops as one or several red rings, ranging in size from a dime to a quarter. They are usually crusty or scaly on the outside and smooth in the center and may get larger over time.

Toddlers can contract ringworm by coming into contact with infected people or pets, towels, hairbrushes, combs, hats and other clothing, or if they are barefoot in an infected locker room or pool area. Some experts believe that there is a genetic tendency for contracting ringworm. Excess sweating can also increase the chances, as the condition thrives in humid climates.

If you suspect your toddler has ringworm on their body, it can be cured with a mild anti-fungal treatment, which you continue use for a couple of weeks, twice a day. Once the rash has started to clear, you can continue to use the cream for another two weeks to help prevent re-infection. If the rash has not gone away after using the cream for a few weeks, please contact us for an appointment.

Warts - Common Toddler Skin ConditionsWarts
Between 10-20% of children have common skin warts. They are caused by the human papillomavirus or HPV, are noncancerous skin growths. They form when the virus invades the skin, usually through a tiny cut or scratch. Warts are often skin-colored and feel rough, but they can be dark (brown or gray-black), flat, and smooth.

Wart viruses are contagious and can be passed from child to child. Once the virus infects the skin, it typically takes several months for the wart to become visible. Warts often go away without treatment. However, if you are unable to get rid of the wart with over-the-counter medications you should schedule an appointment to seek treatment.

Our practice offers dermatologists that specialize in the treatment of children. If you are interested in getting more information about pediatric dermatology or if you want to make an appointment, contact us.

 

 

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