Diaper Dermatitis
"It is very important to follow the recommendations to prevent the appearance of these injuries that are very annoying for the child".
DR. ANA CATALÁN LAMBÁN
SPECIALIST. PEDIATRICS DEPARTMENT
What is nappy rash?
Nappy r ash is a rash that appears in the nappy area, affecting the lower abdomen, genitals, buttocks and upper thighs, especially when exposed to irritants.
It is a common problem in children in the first year of life, although it can also occur in older children or adults with incontinence or paralysis of various causes, who need to wear nappies.
The combination of a series of factors causes a continuous aggression on the skin that ends up producing an alteration of the skin barrier, with red areas in the areas of greatest contact with the nappy, which soon become eroded and over-infected by bacteria or, more frequently, by a fungus called Candida albicans.
Uncomplicated dermatitis usually heals within a few days, while dermatitis that is superinfected by microorganisms usually takes longer: bacterial dermatitis 7-10 days and fungal dermatitis 10-15 days.
Symptoms of childhood epilepsy
The clinical picture is characteristic, varying according to the cause, with erythema, slight oedema, papular lesions, eczematous lesions or ulceration.
In recent years, with the use of disposable nappies, the incidence of this dermatitis has decreased considerably.
The most common symptoms are:
- Stinging and redness
- Inflammation. Discomfort
- Superinfection of the area
Do you have any of these symptoms?
If you suspect that you have any of the above symptoms,
you should consult a medical specialist for a diagnosis.
What are the causes of nappy rash?
The first cause of nappy rash is excessive moisture and friction, which leads to skin maceration in the area. This is caused by prolonged contact with urine and faeces, high surface temperature, faecal enzymes, strong detergents, antiseptics, bacteria and fungi.
As a result, the pH of the skin increases and enzymes, faecal lipase and protease, are activated and irritate the skin. Another factor that can influence the appearance of these lesions is diet. It has been shown that breastfed babies have a lower faecal pH and therefore the irritant action is also lower, reducing the incidence of nappy rash.
What is the prognosis of childhood epilepsy?
70% of patients with idiopathic generalised epilepsies are cured. The cure rate depends on the type of epilepsy .
For example, patients with idiopathic generalised epilepsies - such as infantile absence or tonic-clonic awakening seizures - have a 70% cure rate and do not require further medication after 2 to 5 years.
In contrast, in focal epilepsies, approximately 50% of patients, whose seizures are fully controlled with medication, may be able to do without treatment after 5 years.
Some forms of epilepsy have a particular prognosis, such as juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, which generally responds very well to treatment, but has a high tendency to recur when treatment is withdrawn.
How is nappy rash diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by physical examination. It is sometimes complicated for the paediatrician, as nappy rash may be associated with other rashes in the area:
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Psoriasis
How is diaper rash treated?
Proper care and management of the skin in the diaper area is very important to prevent or decrease episodes of diaper rash.
- The most important thing is to keep the skin as dry and airy as possible.
- It is very important to clean the skin of the area, using only warm water or a mild soap, with neutral or acid pH, with moisturizing properties, every time you change the diaper.
- Whenever possible, the use of disposable diapers is recommended, since they have advantages over traditional cotton diapers in absorbing moisture and avoiding the mixing of urine and feces, thus keeping the area as dry as possible.
- The diaper should be changed frequently, at least 5 times a day. It is important to let the area dry outdoors for a few minutes before putting on the diaper.
- It is convenient to use emollient products and lubricants or mineral oils, not antibiotics or corticoids, unless your pediatrician indicates otherwise.
- The use of vaseline or pastes, such as Lassar paste, is beneficial. If the skin is unharmed, talc or soft powders can be used. If not, it should be discontinued because of its irritating properties.
- If the dermatitis persists, change the type of diapers, soap or wipes to clean the baby. If a superinfection with a fungus is added, your pediatrician will indicate a cream with topical imidazole derivatives.
- In more severe cases, low-potency steroids (hydrocortisone 1%) may be used, in treatments limited to no more than one week. Do not use high-potency steroids.
Where do we treat it?
IN NAVARRE AND MADRID
The Department of Pediatrics
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
All our specialists work exclusively and, in addition, since we have all the technology in the same center, we offer the performance of tests and diagnosis in less than 72 hours.
We have a team of highly qualified professionals to attend the different specialized units: Oncopediatrics, Neuropediatrics, Endocrinopediatrics, Neonatology, etc.
Organized in specialized units
- Neonatology Area.
- Pediatric Endocrinology.
- Pediatric Cardiology.
- Pediatric Neuropediatrics.
- Digestive and pediatric nutrition.
- General and preventive pediatrics.
- Pediatric Pneumology.
Why at the Clinica?
- Comprehensive care of the child.
- Professionals who are experts in the different areas for a better diagnosis and treatment.
- Equipped with the latest technology for newborn care.
Our expert nappy rash team
