CHILDREN and infants have developing immune systems. As the system matures gradually, it faces various challenges from infective agents and allergens. This sometimes predisposes young children to a range of skin diseases.
All medical conditions, including children's skin conditions, need to be managed with a correct diagnosis followed by an appropriate treatment and management plan, says Sunway Medical Centre consultant paediatric dermatologist Dr Heah Sheau Szu.
Some skin conditions, like atopic dermatitis, can have various presentations, and might be confused with other conditions. The similarity among different skin conditions can make diagnosis difficult sometimes.
"Every skin condition has a unique management approach. An inaccurate diagnosis can lead to improper treatment which may be ineffective, delay recovery or even be potentially harmful," says Dr Heah.
"The treatment for skin diseases in children will vary. For example, skin conditions like salmon patch and sebaceous gland hyperplasia are not infectious and can resolve naturally. Scabies scabies is infectious and the whole family needs to be treated," explains Dr Heah.
MANAGING SKIN DISEASES
Understanding common skin conditions is important. Dr Heah says these conditions are largely mild and benign.
It's advisable for caregivers to refer to a doctor for correct diagnosis and treatment if they are uncertain. Once diagnosed, patients are advised to follow the treatment plan.
"Avoid scratching as this can worsen the infection and remember to always keep the infected area clean and dry. It is also best for the child to be dressed in comfortable, loose-fitting outfits to avoid friction to the infected area."
Children's skin disorders can be well-managed if they receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, adds Dr Heah.
Common Skin Diseases In Children
Atopic Dermatitis (AD)
AD/eczema is a very common skin disease causing inflammation and irritation with itchy, red and dry patches. It is the most common type of skin disease in children, impacting up to 13 per cent of Malaysian children.
Sebaceous gland hyperplasia
Presents as clusters of small white yellowish pimple-like lesions around the nose and cheek areas of infants and happens due to maternal or endogenous androgenic stimulation of the sebaceous gland growth.
Salmon patch/Angel kiss/Stork-bite mark
These are interesting names given to benign vascular lesions usually at the forehead, glabella and nape of the neck. This birthmark is asymptomatic and will fade with time.
Bullous impetigo
An infectious skin condition which presents as fluid-filled blisters, often on the chest, back, shoulders, abdomen, arms and legs of children below 5 years old. It commonly occurs following secondary bacterial infection of insect bites, chicken pox, scabies and eczema.
Molluscum contagiosum
A viral skin infection that leads to small, flesh-coloured dome-shaped skin bumps which are near together.
Scabies
A contagious parasitic infection that causes severe itching and a scaly rash on fingers, web spaces, wrists, axilla and the groyne.
Diaper rash
A common skin condition at the diaper area resulting from prolonged skin irritation from exposure to faeces, urine and friction.
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