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Lyme Disease in Children What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease (LD) is a multi-stage, multi-system bacterial infection caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi, a spiral shaped bacterium that is most commonly transmitted by a tick bite. The disease takes its name from Lyme, Connecticut, where the illness was first identified in the United States in 1975. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Lyme disease continues to be a rapidly emerging infectious disease, and is the lea...

Bacterial Skin Infections in Children The skin is the body's first barrier against bacteria that cause infections. Even though many bacteria live on the surface of our skin, healthy skin can usually protect us from infection. Bacterial skin infections can affect a small spot or may spread, affecting a large area. They can range from a treatable infection to a life-threatening skin condition. Anyone who has a break in the skin is at risk for infection. Certain conditions or diseases put a child at greate...

Benign Skin Growths and Pigmentation Disorders Abnormal skin growths and abnormal pigmentation of the skin may be present at birth, or develop later in life. Although harmless in most cases, skin growth and pigmentation disorders should be monitored for any changes that may indicate a development of cancerous skin cells. There are many types of skin growths and pigmentation disorders that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for w...

Birthmarks What are birthmarks? Birthmarks are areas of discolored and/or raised skin that are apparent at birth or within a few weeks of birth. Birthmarks are made up of malformed pigment cells or blood vessels. About 10 in every 100 babies have vascular birthmarks (birthmarks made up of blood vessels). Although the cause of birthmarks is not known, most of them are benign (non-cancerous) and do not require treatment. Babies with birthmarks should be examined and diagnosed by a physician. What are the ...

Bites Regardless of how careful you are about animals in your home, or how many precautions you take when your child is outdoors playing, animal and insect bites and stings may occur. By remaining calm and knowing some basic first aid techniques, you can help your child overcome both the fear and the trauma of bites and stings. There are many different types of bites or stings that may require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for whic...

Blisters in Children What is a blister? A blister is a bump on the skin containing fluid. Blisters are usually circular in shape. The fluid that forms underneath the skin can be bloody or clear. What causes a blister? Blisters are caused by injury, allergic reactions, or infections, which may include the following: burns/scalds sunburns friction (from a shoe, for example) contact dermatitis impetigo (a contagious infection of the skin) viral infections (including chickenpox and herpes zoster) The sympto...

Burns in Children According to the latest data available from the National SAFE KIDS Campaign, consider the following statistics: Accidental, or unintentional, injury is a leading cause of death among children, teens, and young adults. Leading causes of accidental injury at home are burns, drowning, suffocation, choking, poisonings, falls, and fire arms. Burns and fires are the fifth most common cause of accidental death in children and adults, and account for an estimated 4,000 adult and child deaths p...

Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) in Children What is candidiasis? Candidiasis, sometimes called moniliasis or a yeast infection, is an infection caused by yeast on the skin and/or mucous membranes. Although yeast is normally a harmless inhabitant of the digestive system and vaginal area, it may cause an infection when the skin is damaged or when conditions are warm and humid, or when a child has a depressed immune system. Antibiotics can also cause yeast to grow, because the normal bacteria in tissues are ...

Cellulitis in Children What is cellulitis? Cellulitis is a deep bacterial infection of the skin. The infection usually involves the face, or the arms and legs. It may happen in normal skin, but it usually occurs after some type of trauma causes an opening in your child's skin. This opening can lead to an infection. What is the cause of cellulitis? Cellulitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection of a wound or area of skin that is no longer intact. The most common bacterial causes of cellulitis incl...

Chickenpox What is chickenpox? Chickenpox is a highly infectious disease, usually associated with childhood. By adulthood, more than 90 percent of Americans have had chickenpox. The disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a form of the herpes virus. Transmission occurs from person-to-person by direct contact or through the air by coughing or sneezing. Until 1995, chickenpox infection was a common occurrence, and almost everyone had been infected by the time he or she reached adulthood. Ho...

Children and Fleas, Mites, and Chiggers Fleas, mites, and chiggers often bite humans, but are not poisonous. It is sometimes difficult to assess which type of insect caused the bite, or if the rash is caused by poison ivy or other skin conditions. What are the symptoms of a flea, mite, or chigger bite? The following are the most common symptoms of a flea, mite, or chigger bite. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: small, raised skin lesions pain or itching derma...

Children and Folliculitis, Boils, and Carbuncles What are folliculitis, boils, and carbuncles? Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles due to an infection, injury, or irritation. It is characterized by tender, swollen areas that form around hair follicles, often on the neck, breasts, buttocks, and face. Boils are pus-filled lesions that are painful and usually firm. Boils are usually located in the waist area, groin, buttocks, and under the arm. Carbuncles are clusters of boils. These are usu...

Common Skin Disorders in Children There are many common skin disorders that require the clinical care of a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Bacterial Skin Infections Fungal Skin Infections Viral Skin Infections Viral Exanthems (Rashes) Parasitic Skin Infections

Dermatitis in Children Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin. Dermatitis actually refers to a number of skin conditions that inflame the skin. Dermatitis is characterized by skin that may be red, swollen, blistered, scabbed, scaly, oozing, or itchy. Some types of dermatitis are caused by allergies, while the majority do not have any known causes. Contact Dermatitis Atopic Dermatitis in Children Diaper Dermatitis Seborrheic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap)

Describing a Child's Skin Condition How to describe a skin condition: A physician may ask you to describe your child's dermatological condition and its location. Here are some of the more common terms that may help you in providing a more accurate description: atrophic thin, wrinkled blister fluid-filled bump crust/scab formation of dried blood, pus, or other skin fluid over a break in the skin cyst deeply seated lesion that contains material excoriation a scratch hives/wheals pink or white swelling of ...

Diaper Dermatitis What is diaper dermatitis? Diaper dermatitis, commonly known as a diaper rash, is a term used to describe different skin rashes in the diapered area. The rash is usually red, scaling and, rarely, 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. What causes diaper dermatitis? Possible contributors to diaper dermatitis include the following: irritation - from urine and feces trapped in the diaper. candida ...

Drug Rashes in Children What are drug rashes? Drug rashes are the body's reaction to a certain medication. The type of rash that occurs depends on the type of drug that is causing it. Rashes can range from mild to severe. Rashes caused by drugs can be categorized in the following groups: rashes caused by an allergic reaction to the medication rashes produced as an unwanted effect of a particular medication rashes due to hypersensitivity to sunlight caused by the medication Drug rashes may be severe and ...

Facts About Animal Bites All animal bites require treatment based on the type and severity of the wound. Whether the bite is from a family pet or an animal in the wild, scratches and bites can become infected and cause scarring. Animals can also carry diseases that can be transmitted through a bite. Bites that break the skin and bites of the scalp, face, hand, wrist, or foot are more likely to become infected. Cat scratches, even from a kitten, can carry "cat scratch disease," a bacterial infection. Oth...

Fifth Disease What is fifth disease? Fifth disease is a viral illness that is associated with exanthem. Exanthem is another name for a rash or skin eruption. It is spread from one child to another through direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat. It can also be spread through contact with infected blood. It is moderately contagious and usually does not include a high fever, as seen with some other viral skin conditions. What causes fifth disease? Fifth disease is caused by the human parvov...

Fungal Infections Skin fungi live in the dead, top layer of skin cells in moist areas of the body, such as between the toes, groin, and diaper area. Some fungal infections cause only a small amount of irritation. Other types of fungal infections penetrate deeper and may cause itching, swelling, blistering, and scaling. In some cases, fungal infections can cause reactions elsewhere on the body. For example, a child may develop a rash on the finger or hand associated with an infection of the scalp or foot...

Topic Index Anatomy of the Skin Skin Tests Describing a Skin Condition Common Skin Disorders Non-Infectious Skin Conditions Benign Skin Growth and Pigmentation Disorders Skin Injury Glossary The skin is the largest organ of the body, covering the entire body. As the outer protective covering of the body, it is exposed to the environment, making it vulnerable to growths, rashes, discoloration, cysts, burns, injuries, infections, and other disorders. Dermatology is the study of skin diseases and condition...

Impetigo What is impetigo? Impetigo is a superficial infection of the skin, caused by bacteria. The lesions are often grouped and have a red base. The lesions open and become crusty and have a "honey-color," which is typical of impetigo. Impetigo is contagious and can be spread throughout a household, with children reinfecting themselves or other family members. What causes impetigo? Common bacteria, some of which are found normally on the skin, cause impetigo. When the bacteria enter an open area in th...

Insect Bites and Children Regardless of how careful you are about animals in your home, or how many precautions you take when your child is outside playing, animal and insect bites and stings are sometimes unavoidable. By remaining calm and knowing some basic first aid techniques, you can help your child overcome both the fear and the trauma of bites and stings. There are many different types of bites and stings that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the di...

Lice What are lice? Lice are tiny insects that can infest the skin anywhere on the body. Lice infection is characterized by intense itching. Lice are highly contagious, spreading from person to person by close body contact, shared clothes, and other items (such as hats, hairbrushes, and combs). There are three types of human lice: head lice body lice pubic lice Facts about lice: Head lice: Head lice are seen mostly in child care settings and among school-aged children. The child usually has itching in t...

Molluscum Contagiosum in Children What is molluscum contagiosum? Molluscum contagiosum is a viral disease of the skin that causes small pink or skin-colored bumps on your child's skin. It is not harmful and usually does not have any other symptoms. The virus is inside the bumps and is mildly contagious. These bumps usually clear over an extended period of time. What causes molluscum contagiosum? Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus called the poxvirus. It is most common in children and adolescents...

Non-Infectious Skin Conditions There are many different non-infectious skin conditions that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Dermatitis Acne Drug Rashes Poison Ivy/Poison Oak Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Online Resources - Dermatology for Children This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page co...

Other Benign Skin Growths in Children What are other benign skin growths? As a person grows older and is exposed to sunlight, the skin changes. Children may have freckles and moles, which may multiply or darken over time. What are the different types of skin growths? Skin Growth Characteristics Treatment dermatofibromas Small, firm, red or brown bumps caused by an accumulation of fibroblasts (soft tissue cells under the skin). They often occur on the legs and may itch. Dermatofibromas can be surgically ...

Parasitic Skin Infections Parasites on the skin are usually small insects or worms that burrow into the skin to live there or lay their eggs. There are many types of parasitic skin infections that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Scabies Lice

Pediatric Glossary - Dermatology | A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M | | N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y | | Z | A [back to top] acne - a chronic disorder of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Acne is characterized by black heads, pimple outbreaks, cysts, infected abscesses, and (sometimes) scarring. angioma - a benign tumor in the skin, made up of blood or lymph vessels. B [back to top] basal cell carcinoma - the most com...

Pityriasis Rosea in Children What is pityriasis rosea? Pityriasis rosea is a mild, but common, skin condition. Characterized by scaly, pink, inflamed skin, the condition can last from four to eight weeks and usually leaves no lasting marks. What causes pityriasis rosea? The cause of pityriasis rosea is not known, but it is commonly believed to be caused by a virus. It is usually seen in children, adolescents, and young adults. Most people with the rash are 10 to 35 years of age. The condition is more pr...

Poison Ivy / Poison Oak and Children What is poison ivy/poison oak? There are three native American plants that collectively may be called poison ivy: poison ivy poison oak poison sumac These plants can cause an allergic reaction in nearly 85 percent of the population. To be allergic to poison ivy, your child must first be "sensitized" to the oils. This means that next time there is contact with the plant, a rash may occur. What causes an allergic reaction? The resin in the plants contains an oily subst...

Scabies in Children What is scabies? Scabies is an infestation of mites (tiny insects) characterized by small red bumps and intense itching. This highly contagious infection often spreads from person to person while they are sleeping together in the same bed or have close personal contact. The itching is caused by the mites burrowing into the skin where they lay eggs that hatch a few days later. Scabies can affect people of all ages. Scabies occurs mostly in children and young adults. What are the sympt...

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap) What is seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap)? Also called cradle cap, seborrheic dermatitis in the infant is characterized by fine white scales. However, seborrheic dermatitis can also occur in the diaper area, face, neck, and trunk. Seborrheic dermatitis in this age group usually clears within the first year. What causes cradle cap? The exact cause of this skin condition is not known. What does cradle cap look like? The following are the most common signs and symptoms o...

Skin Cancer in Children What is skin cancer? Skin cancer is a malignant tumor that grows in the skin cells. In the US alone, more than 1 million Americans will be diagnosed in 2009 with nonmelanoma skin cancer, and 68,720 will be diagnosed with melanoma, according to the American Cancer Society. Fortunately, skin cancers (basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma) are rare in children. When melanomas occur, they usually arise from pigmented nevi (moles) that are large (diameter grea...

Skin Injury in Children External factors can harm the skin, including heat, sharp objects, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and excessive rubbing or pressure. There are many types of skin injuries that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Blisters Burns Sunburn Bites

Sunburn and Children What is sunburn? Sunburn is a visible reaction of the skin's exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the invisible rays that are part of sunlight. Ultraviolet rays can also cause invisible damage to the skin. Excessive and/or multiple sunburns cause premature aging of the skin and lead to skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the US and exposure to the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer. Children often spend a good part of their day playing outdoors in t...

Tick Bites Ticks are small insects that live in grass, bushes, wooded areas, and seashores. They attach their bodies onto a human or animal host and prefer hairy areas such as the scalp, behind the ear, in the armpit and groin, and also between fingers and toes. Tick bites often occur at night and occur more in the spring and summer months. What to do if you find a tick on your child: Do not touch the tick with your bare hand. If you do not have a pair of tweezers, take your child to your nearest health...

Tinea Infections (Ringworm) in Children What are tinea infections (ringworm)? Different fungi, depending on their location on the child's body, cause ringworm. Ringworm is characterized by ring-shaped red, scaly patches with clearing centers. There is an increased risk of contracting ringworm if your child: is malnourished. has poor hygiene. lives in a warm climate. has contact with other children or pets that have ringworm. is immunocompromised by disease or medication. What are the most common types o...

Tinea Versicolor in Children What is tinea versicolor? Tinea versicolor is a common fungal skin infection characterized by lighter or darker patches on the skin. Patches are most often found on the chest or back and prevent the skin from tanning evenly. It occurs mostly in adolescence and early adulthood, but it can occur at any time. What are the symptoms of tinea versicolor? Usually the only symptom of tinea versicolor is the white or light brown patches. Patches may scale slightly, but rarely itch or...

Topic Index - Dermatology for Children Dermatology Home Anatomy of the Skin Skin Tests Describing a Skin Condition Common Skin Disorders Bacterial Skin Infections Impetigo Cellulitis Scarlet Fever Folliculitis, Boils, Carbuncles Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome Fungal Skin Infections Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) Tinea Infections (Ringworm) Tinea Versicolor Viral Skin Infections Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Pityriasis Rosea Warts Molluscum Contagiosum Viral Exanthems (Rashes) Rubella (German Measles) Ru...

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis in Children What is toxic epidermal necrolysis? Toxic epidermal necrolysis is a life-threatening skin disorder characterized by a blistering and peeling of the skin. This disorder can be caused by a drug reaction - frequently antibiotics or anticonvulsives. What are the symptoms of toxic epidermal necrolysis? Toxic epidermal necrolysis causes the skin to peel in sheets, leaving large, raw areas. The loss of skin allows fluids and salts to ooze from the raw, damaged areas and c...

Treatment for Dog and Cat Bites and Scratches How to respond to dog or cat bites and scratches: When your child is bitten or scratched by an animal, remain calm and reassure your child that you can help. Specific treatment for an animal bite will be determined by your child's physician. Treatment may include: For superficial bites from a familiar household pet who is immunized and in good health: Wash the wound with soap and water under pressure from a faucet for at least five minutes, but do not scrub ...

Treatment for Skin Cancer in Children What are the treatments for skin cancer? Specific treatment for skin cancer will be determined by your child's physician based on: your child's overall health and medical history extent and type of the disease your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies expectations for the course of the disease your opinion or preference There are several kinds of treatments for skin cancer: surgery Surgery is a common treatment for skin cancer. It is used in ...

Viral Exanthems (Rashes) Many viral infections of the skin in childhood are called "viral exanthems." Exanthem is another name for a rash or skin eruption. This type of rash is mainly caused by viruses. It may also be caused by medication, especially antibiotics. The most common childhood viral exanthems include the following: measles or rubeola rubella varicella (or chickenpox) fifth disease roseola Immunizations have lead to a decrease in the number of cases of measles, mumps, and rubella. The above v...

Viral Skin Infections Many viral infections in childhood are called "viral exanthems." Exanthem is another name for a rash or skin eruption. This type of rash is mainly caused by viruses. It may also be caused by medication, especially antibiotics. Common childhood viral exanthems include the following: measles or rubeola rubella varicella (or chickenpox) fifth disease roseola Immunizations have decreased the number of cases of measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. The above viral exanthems have dist...

Warts in Children What are warts? Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the papillomavirus. Warts are more common in children than adults, although they can develop at any age. Warts can spread to other parts of the body and to other persons. There are many different types of warts, due to many different papillomavirus types (more than 100). Warts are not painful, except when located on the feet. Most warts go away, without treatment, over an extended period of time. Common types of warts: The ...

Facts About Sunburn What is sunburn? Sunburn is a visible reaction of the skin's exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the invisible rays that are part of sunlight. Ultraviolet rays can also cause invisible damage to the skin. Excessive and/or multiple sunburns cause premature aging of the skin and lead to skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the US and exposure to the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer. Children often spend a good part of their day playing outdoors in th...

Acne in Children What is acne? Acne is a disorder of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. With acne, the sebaceous glands are clogged, which leads to pimples and cysts. Acne is very common - nearly 80 percent of individuals in the US between 11 and 30 years old will be affected by this condition at some point. Acne most often begins in puberty. During puberty, the male sex hormones (androgens) increase in both boys and girls, causing the sebaceous glands to become more active - resulting in increase...

Atopic Dermatitis in Children What is atopic dermatitis? Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is a skin disorder that usually appears in babies or very young children, and may last until the child reaches adolescence or adulthood. Eczema causes the skin to itch, turn red, and flake. Parents with eczema are more likely to have children with eczema. Different triggers can make eczema worse, including environmental stress, allergies, and sweating. Of children who have eczema, most will show signs of ecze...

Contact Dermatitis in Children What is contact dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a physiological reaction that occurs after skin comes in contact with certain substances. Irritants to the skin cause the vast majority of these reactions. The remaining reactions are caused by allergens, which trigger an allergic response. Adults are most commonly affected by allergic contact dermatitis, but it can affect persons of all ages. What causes irritant contact dermatitis? The most common causes of irritants to c...

Urticaria / Hives in Children What is urticaria? Urticaria, or hives, is a condition in which red, itchy, and swollen areas appear on the skin - usually as an allergic reaction from eating certain foods or taking certain medications. Hives can vary in size from a half and inch to several inches in size. Hives can appear all over the body or limited to one part of the body. What foods commonly cause hives? peanuts eggs shellfish What medications commonly cause hives? penicillin sulfa anticonvulsant drugs...

Acne What is acne? Acne is a disorder of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. The glands become clogged, leading to pimples and cysts. Acne is very common - nearly 80 percent of individuals in the US between 11 and 30 years old will be affected by this condition at some point. Acne most often begins in puberty. During puberty, the male sex hormones (androgens) increase in both boys and girls, causing the sebaceous glands to become more active - resulting in increased production of oil (sebum). How d...

Acne Scar Removal Treatment for acne scars: Specific dermatological procedures to minimize acne scars will be determined by your physician based on: your age, overall health, and medical history severity of the scar type of scar your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies your opinion or preference Although acne often is a chronic condition, even if it lasts only during adolescence, acne can leave life-long scars. Acne scars typically look like "ice pick" pit scars or craterlike sc...

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) What is atopic dermatitis? Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is a hereditary and chronic skin disorder that mostly affects infants or very young children, and may last until the child reaches adolescence or adulthood. Eczema causes the skin to itch, turn red, and flake. Parents with eczema are more likely to have children with eczema. Different triggers can make eczema worse, including environmental irritants, allergies, and stress. The condition tends to flare up during ...

Bacterial Skin Infections The skin is the body's first barrier against bacteria that cause infections. Even though many bacteria live on the surface of our skin, healthy skin can usually protect us from infection. However, bacterial skin infections can affect a small spot or may spread, affecting a large area. They can range from a treatable infection to a life-threatening skin condition. Any one who has a break in the skin is at risk for infection. However, certain conditions or diseases can put a pers...

Baldness (Alopecia) What is baldness? Baldness, also known as alopecia, is hair loss, or absence of hair. Baldness is usually most noticeable on the scalp, but can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows. The condition is more common in men than in women. What causes hair loss? Hair loss is believed to be primarily caused by a combination of the following: aging change in hormones illness family history of baldness burns trauma However, hair loss is not caused by the following: poor circulation to t...

Bed Sores What are bed sores? Bed sores can occur when a person is bedridden, unconscious, unable to sense pain, or immobile. Bed sores are ulcers that occur on areas of the skin that are under pressure from lying in bed, sitting in a wheelchair, and/or wearing a cast for a prolonged period of time. Why does a bed sore develop? A bed sore develops when blood supply to the skin is cut off for more than two to three hours. As the skin dies, the bed sore first starts as a red, painful area, which eventuall...

Blisters What is a blister? A blister is a bump on the skin containing fluid. Blisters are usually circular in shape. The fluid that forms underneath the skin can be bloody or clear. What causes a blister? Blisters are caused by injury, allergic reactions, or infections, which may include the following: burns/scalds sunburns friction (from a shoe, for example) eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) impetigo - a contagious infection of the skin. pemphigus - a rare, blistering skin disease often occurri...

Calluses and Corns What are calluses and corns? Calluses are protective pads made up of the thickened upper layer of skin due to repeated rubbing of the area. Corns are small calluses that develop on the top of the toes due to pressure or rubbing against shoes or other toes. Treatment for calluses and corns: Calluses are usually painless, but corns can be quite painful. Sometimes, corns are confused with warts. Calluses can be avoided by removing the source of the rubbing and thinning the callus with a ...