"Kids' Health" supplement in the October 18-20, 2002 weekend edition of USA Today

YOUR PEDIATRICIAN CAN DIAGNOSE, TREAT COMMON SKIN PROBLEMS

 

Skin is the body's largest organ, and skin problems can affect everyone from newborns to older adults. If your infant, child or teenager shows signs of skin problems, consult your pediatrician as soon as possible to determine the problem and treat it properly.

Here are just a few of the common skin conditions and problems affecting children and adolescents:

Birthmarks
Many babies have birthmarks that gradually fade away without treatment, although some may grow larger before they disappear. Some birthmarks may be permanent. Your pediatrician will advise whether a birthmark should be treated or left alone.

Rashes
Infants may develop a variety of rashes in their first months. Diaper rash, an infection caused by yeast or bacteria, is the most common rash affecting infants. The best way to avoid diaper rash is to change wet or soiled diapers promptly, clean the baby with plain water, pat dry, and apply a cornstarch-based powder. Expose the diaper area to air as much as possible and avoid plastic or rubber pants. If the rash doesn't improve or gets worse, call your pediatrician. If your baby has a persistent or widespread rash, bring it to your pediatrician's attention.

Eczema
Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a life-altering disease affecting people of all ages. It is a chronic condition of the skin typified by red, inflamed, swollen, dry and itchy skin that can significantly affect quality of life. The majority of eczema cases are diagnosed in early childhood. While 40 percent of children suffering from eczema outgrow the disease, others live with it throughout their lives.

Eczema should be diagnosed and treated by your physician. The traditional treatment has often been steroid creams, in conjunction with moisturizers and antihistamines to control itching. A non-steroidal topical ointment is also now available - again, check with your pediatrician to determine which treatment is best for your child.

Sunburn and skin cancer
The dangers of sun exposure are well known today. The most significant danger is skin cancer, a disease most often associated with over-exposure to the sun, especially at an early age. About 1 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States each year.

Children, including infants, should wear sunglasses designed to block at least 99 percent of the sun's rays and hats with a brim. Children and adolescents also should wear sunscreen at all times when involved in outdoor activities. For infants younger than 6 months of age, sunscreen protection is also advised when adequate clothing and shade are not available. Avoiding sun exposure and dressing infants and children in lightweight long pants and long-sleeved shirts are still the top recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics to prevent sunburn.

Acne
Almost everyone suffers from acne at some time, especially during adolescence, but the condition is treatable. Most people can control pimples by taking good care of their skin at home. Over-the-counter creams and lotions are also helpful. A variety of acne medications are available.

See your pediatrician for help when your child or teenager's acne does not get better with home care.