5 Most Common Skin Conditions in Children

It is difficult for you as a parent to see your child in discomfort, and rashes can be alarming when they appear on your little one’s skin. However, many are quite common and can be treated successfully. Children’s National Health System details common skin conditions in children, for which you should or may wish to seek clinical care. Here are five you may encounter.

5. Ringworm

Ringworm is a skin infection that has nothing to do with worms. It is classified by the fungi causing it and where it appears on the body.

  • Scalp ringworm: Seen mainly in children ages 2 to 10. Symptoms can include a red, scaly rash, itching and hair loss.
  • Nail ringworm: More common in toenails, but can appear in fingernails, too. It is characterized by yellowing and thickening of the nail.
  • Body ringworm: Appears on the body or face as a circular lesion with red, raised edges. It’s also very itchy.

 

Children spread rashes like this through contact or by sharing personal items. Treatment may include topical and oral antifungal medication.

4. Molluscum

Molluscum is a viral skin disease characterized by clusters of small bumps. It is not harmful, but it is somewhat contagious, passed by contact. Left alone, it generally heals in six to 12 months. Treatment typically involves removal of the bumps and application of topical medication to quicken the healing process.

3. Psoriasis

Some 20,000 children develop psoriasis, a genetic skin disease, before age 10, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. It is an autoimmune disease that produces thick, red and scaly skin on hands, feet, nails, knees and the face or scalp. There is no cure for rashes such as psoriasis, but symptoms and appearance can be managed with topical creams and ointments, light therapy and/or oral medications.

2. Warts

The papillomavirus causes warts, which are benign skin growths. They may clear up on their own over a lengthy period of time but can be uncomfortable and even painful. There are many types of warts, which can appear on the hands, feet, face and other body areas. Treatments include the following:

 

  • Laser therapy
  • Surgical removal
  • Freezing with liquid nitrogen

1. Eczema

Eczema tops the list of most common rashes in children, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Among patients, some 65 percent develop symptoms in their first 12 months, while 90 percent show symptoms by the age of 5. It is a chronic condition that many children outgrow eventually. It can appear anywhere as dry, red, itchy skin and rashes that are either very dry or ooze liquid. Along with avoiding irritants and using moisturizer, treatment can include topical creams and ointments or oral medication.

When You Should Seek Treatment

For rashes and skin conditions such as eczema and ringworm, it is important to seek prompt treatment because scratching can cause infection. While not generally harmful, other conditions such as psoriasis and molluscum may cause discomfort due to their visibility.

Pediatric dermatology is one of the fields in which we specialize at Windsor Dermatology. Let our board-certified professionals design an effective treatment plan to help your child realize clearer skin. Call at 609-443-4500 or schedule an appointment online.

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