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Common Skin Conditions in Children

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What are some common skin conditions in children?

Children's skin is sensitive and prone to various conditions, which can be a source of concern for parents. Understanding these common skin conditions is crucial for ensuring proper care and treatment.

There are four main overarching types of skin conditions in children:

  1. bacterial infections
  2. viral infections
  3. fungal infections
  4. parasitic infections

Each type has distinct characteristics and treatment approaches, which will be discussed in detail below.

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Condition #1: Bacterial infections

Bacterial Infections are caused by germs, the most common of which is an organism known as Staphylococcus Aureus. Other bacteria, such as Streptococcus, can also cause skin infections in children.

Impetigo is one of the more common skin infections seen in toddlers. The face is a common location and there is a rapid onset of rashes with yellowish crusts that form around the mouth and nasal areas.

Some children can also develop blisters that are easily ruptured and dry up to form a stuck-on crust. This can spread through skin-to-skin contact and is infectious, and should be attended to by a doctor.

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Condition #2: Viral infections

The more common viral infections affecting the skin of children include the following:

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Condition #3: Fungal infections

Fungal Infections cause ‘ringworm’, which appears as a scaly itchy round patch on the skin with scaly borders.

In children, sometimes the infection may be from contact with a pet, such as a kitten or puppy.

Toddlers are also prone to Candidiasis, which is caused by a type of yeast. These appear as red bumps and patches on the skin folds, such as the neck, diaper, and buttock areas.

Fungal Infections can be treated with topicals in most cases. The affected areas should be kept dry and the antifungal creams used until the rash totally clears.

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Condition #4: Parasitic infections

Scabies can affect both children and adults. It causes an intensely itchy rash and there is often a history of close family members also suffering from itch.

In children, small tiny bumps can appear on the finger webs, wrists, and toes, and also on the body. Occasionally pustules may also be seen. There are also itchy papules or nodules which typically appear on the armpits and genital area.

Once the condition is diagnosed, anti-mite lotions are used, and close contacts are also treated at the same time. Creams can be used to soothe the itch.

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Suspect your child has any of the above skin conditions?

Enquire now for more information, or make an appointment today with our dermatologist.

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