DIAPER RASH

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Diaper Dermatitis in a Female Infant

Rash starts off with small pink and red spots; these spots gradually merge and the entire area under the diaper can become red appearing.
Trapped moisture under the diaper is the main cause of redness. Prolonged contact with urine or stool further irritates the skin.
Prevention and treatment of this rash are the same: change diapers frequently, keep the skin clean and dry.

Diaper Dermatitis in a Male Infant

Red rash in the area under the diaper. Skin has become shiny.
Any diaper rash that lasts longer than a couple days can become secondarily infected with Candida (yeast). Note the red spots ("satellite lesions") outside the main area of redness.
If a yeast infection is suspected, Lotrimin cream (over-the-counter) should be applied 4 times daily.

Symptom Definition

Any rash in the skin area covered by a diaper.
Limited to diaper-wearing age group (birth to 3 years).
Main complication: secondary infection by yeast or bacteria

Cause

A chemical irritation of the skin from a mixture of stool and urine being left on it (worse during bouts of diarrhea).

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

Doesn't look like diaper rash, see RASHES, LOCALIZED AND CAUSE UNKNOWN

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2002

See Other Topics:

Rashes, Localized and Cause Unknown

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