103: Neonatal Dermatology Flashcards
What is the significance of the epidermis developing as a basal cell layer and a superficial periderm layer at 6 weeks of gestational age?
The periderm does not contribute to the formation of stratified squamous epithelium and is shed during the end of the 2nd trimester, indicating its temporary role in skin development.
How does the epidermal barrier function differ between term and preterm neonates?
In term neonates, the epidermal barrier function is fully developed by 2-4 weeks of life, while in preterm neonates, particularly those born before 34 weeks, the barrier function is markedly decreased and may take longer to mature.
What are the implications of increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in preterm neonates?
Increased TEWL in preterm and low birthweight neonates reflects epidermal barrier immaturity and is associated with a higher risk of infection and sepsis due to skin fragility and potential entry points for pathogens.
What changes occur in the thickness of the stratum corneum during the first three months of life?
During the first three months of life, the thickness of the stratum corneum decreases, while epidermal thickness increases, leading to the formation of dermal papillae and epidermal ridges.
What role does vernix caseosa play in neonatal skin development?
Vernix caseosa is produced around 36 weeks of gestation and is crucial for epidermal maturation and the formation of the stratum corneum. It has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and barrier functions, contributing to skin protection.
What is the neonatal period defined as?
The first 30 days of life.
At what gestational age does the epidermis begin to develop?
6 weeks of gestational age.
What is the significance of vernix caseosa in neonates?
It is associated with epidermal maturation and has antimicrobial and barrier functions.
When does the functional maturation of the stratum corneum begin in preterm infants?
Around 24 weeks of gestation.
What happens to the thickness of the stratum corneum in the first 3 months of life?
It decreases, while epidermal thickness increases.
What is the effect of TEWL in preterm and low birthweight neonates?
TEWL is significantly increased, reflecting epidermal barrier immaturity.
What is the risk associated with the fragile skin of preterm infants?
Increased risk for infection and sepsis due to skin-associated organisms.
How does thermal regulation function in premature infants?
It is dysfunctional due to a thin subcutaneous fat layer and poor autonomic control.
What is the role of emollient therapy in premature infants?
It improves skin integrity but may increase the risk of systemic candidiasis.
What is the typical skin pH in term and preterm neonates compared to older infants?
It is more alkaline in term and preterm neonates.
What are the key developmental milestones of the epidermis during the first 6 weeks of gestation in neonates?
- 6 weeks: Epidermis begins to develop as a basal cell layer and a superficial periderm layer.
- 8 weeks: Stratification of fetal epidermis and DEJ evident.
- 11-15 weeks: Terminal differentiation first in skin appendages, then in interfollicular epidermis.
- 15 weeks: Collagen fiber formation and organization of papillary and reticular dermis.
- 22-24 weeks: Epidermis consists of 4-5 cell layers, elastic fibers noted.
How does the epidermal barrier function differ between term and preterm neonates, and what are the clinical implications?
- Term Neonates:
- Full barrier function achieved by 2-4 weeks of life.
- TEWL is equivalent to adults after drying of the skin.
- Preterm Neonates:
- Markedly decreased epidermal barrier function, particularly in those born before 34 weeks.
- Functional maturation of the stratum corneum begins around 24 weeks, may take longer than 4 weeks in very preterm infants.
- Clinical Implications:
- Increased risk for infection and sepsis due to fragile skin.
- Higher TEWL rates lead to greater fluid loss and potential for dehydration.
What are the risks associated with thermal regulation in premature infants, and how should they be managed?
- Risks:
- Dysfunctional thermal regulation due to thin subcutaneous fat layer.
- Decreased ability to sweat and poor autonomic control of cutaneous blood vessels.
- Large surface-area-to-body-mass ratio increases heat loss.
- Management:
- Place premature infants in a temperature and humidity controlled isolette.
- Monitor temperature and fluid regulation until stabilized.
- Consider the use of radiant warmers and phototherapy cautiously, as they can increase TEWL.
What is the significance of vernix caseosa in neonates, and how does its production correlate with skin development?
- Vernix Caseosa:
- A lipid-rich substance produced by sebaceous glands, beginning around 36 weeks of gestation.
- Composed of water-containing corneocytes in a lipid matrix, providing antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
- Significance:
- Plays a crucial role in the maturation of the epidermal barrier and formation of the stratum corneum.
- Protects the skin from environmental factors and aids in skin hydration.
What are the recommendations for routine skin care in neonates?
- Bathing in water 2 to 3 times per week for no more than 5 to 10 minutes using a gentle soap-free liquid skin cleanser instead of a washcloth.
- Application of an emollient after bathing.
- An appropriate skin-care regimen minimizes overbathing, maintains the epidermal barrier, and reduces exposure to irritants.
- Less is best to avoid irritation and allergic contact dermatitis.
What is the significance of the greater surface-area-to-body-mass ratio in neonates regarding topical substances?
Neonates have an increased risk for systemic toxicity from topically applied substances due to:
- Greater surface-area-to-body-mass ratio compared to adults.
- Preterm neonates have an even greater ratio, increasing the risk of toxicity.
- Differences in metabolism, excretion, and protein binding of substances compared to adults, which can magnify adverse effects, especially in preterm neonates.
What are the characteristics and resolution timeline of caput succedaneum?
Caput succedaneum is characterized by:
- Subcutaneous edema over the presenting part of the head due to pressure against the cervix.
- Common occurrence in newborns, soft to palpation with ill-defined borders.
- Petechiae and ecchymosis may also be noted.
Resolution: Typically resolves spontaneously over 7 to 10 days.
What are the features of erythema toxicum neonatorum?
Erythema toxicum neonatorum is characterized by:
- Idiopathic, common skin condition seen in up to 75% of term newborns.
- Blotchy erythematous patches 1-3 cm in diameter with a 1-4 mm central vesicle or pustule.
- Eruption usually begins at 24 to 48 hours of age, but can be delayed up to 10 days.
- Benign condition that clears spontaneously by 2 to 3 weeks of age without residua.
What is the typical presentation and resolution of milia in newborns?
Milia are:
- 2-mm papules that are benign, superficial epidermal inclusion cysts, usually few in number.
- Most commonly found on the face in newborns.
- Generally resolve spontaneously within a few weeks of life.
- Persistent or numerous milia may be associated with rare genetic disorders.
What are the recommendations for routine skin care in neonates?
Bathing in water 2 to 3 times per week for no more than 5 to 10 minutes with a gentle soap-free liquid skin cleanser and application of an emollient after bathing.
Why do neonates have an increased risk for systemic toxicity from topically applied substances?
Due to their greater surface-area-to-body-mass ratio and differences in metabolism, excretion, distribution, and protein binding compared to adults.
What is caput succedaneum?
Subcutaneous edema over the presenting part of the head due to pressure against the cervix, common in newborns, and resolves spontaneously over 7 to 10 days.
What is the difference between caput succedaneum and cephalohematoma?
Caput succedaneum is soft and ill-defined, while cephalohematoma is a firm collection of blood that respects suture lines and may be associated with skull fractures.
What is milia in newborns?
Benign, superficial epidermal inclusion cysts, usually few in number, most commonly found on the face, and generally resolve spontaneously within a few weeks of life.
What is sebaceous gland hyperplasia?
A condition where at least 50% of normal newborns have minute yellow macules or papules at the opening of pilosebaceous follicles, resolving spontaneously by 4 to 6 months of age.
What is erythema toxicum neonatorum?
An idiopathic, common skin condition seen in up to 75% of term newborns, characterized by blotchy erythematous patches with central vesicles or pustules, usually resolving by 2 to 3 weeks of age.
What are the key recommendations for routine skin care in neonates to minimize the risk of systemic toxicity from topically applied substances?
- Bathing: Limit to 2-3 times per week for no more than 5-10 minutes using a gentle soap-free liquid cleanser.
- Emollient Application: Apply an emollient after bathing to maintain the epidermal barrier.
- Minimize Overbathing: Avoid overbathing to reduce exposure to irritants and allergens.
- Less is Best: Use fewer products to decrease the risk of irritation and allergic contact dermatitis.
- Consider Surface Area: Recognize that neonates have a greater surface area-to-body mass ratio, increasing the risk of systemic toxicity from topical substances.
How does the risk of systemic toxicity from topical medications differ between term and preterm neonates?
- Preterm Neonates: Have an even greater surface area-to-body mass ratio than term neonates, leading to a higher risk of systemic toxicity from topical medications.
- Metabolism and Excretion: The metabolism, excretion, distribution, and protein binding of substances can differ significantly in neonates compared to adults, increasing the risk of adverse effects, especially in preterm infants.
What are the distinguishing features of caput succedaneum and cephalohematoma in neonates?
Condition | Characteristics | Resolution Time |
|——————-|——————————————————————————–|————————-|
| Caput Succedaneum | - Subcutaneous edema over the presenting part of the head
- Soft to palpation with ill-defined borders
- Petechiae and ecchymosis may be noted | Resolves spontaneously over 7 to 10 days |
| Cephalohematoma | - Collection of blood between the skull and periosteum, respects suture lines
- Firm to palpation, usually unilateral
- Associated with birth trauma or vacuum extraction | Usually resolves without sequelae over several weeks, but calcification may occur |
What is erythema toxicum neonatorum and how does it typically present in newborns?
- Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum: An idiopathic skin condition seen in up to 75% of term newborns.
- Presentation: Characterized by blotchy erythematous patches 1-3 cm in diameter with a 1-4 mm central vesicle or pustule.
- Onset: Eruption usually begins at 24 to 48 hours of age, but can be delayed up to 10 days.
- Location: Lesions can be located anywhere but tend to spare the palms and soles.
- Resolution: Clears spontaneously by 2 to 3 weeks of age without residua.
What is Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis and how does it present?
Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis is an idiopathic pustular eruption in newborns characterized by multiple superficial vesicles and pustules, often with ruptured lesions that appear as collarettes of scale. It is more common in newborns with darkly pigmented skin and can present at birth or as late as 3 weeks of age. Hyperpigmented macules may develop at the sites of resolving pustules and usually resolve within 5 to 7 days.
What are the characteristics and causes of Miliaria Rubra and Crystallina?
Miliaria, or ‘heat rash’, is a common disorder of the eccrine glands resulting from fever or overheating, especially when neonates are swaddled. Miliaria crystallina presents as minute superficial subcorneal vesicles, while Miliaria rubra involves deeper occlusion with inflammation, manifesting as 1-3 mm erythematous papules or papulopustules. Both conditions resolve spontaneously once the inciting factors are addressed.
What is mottling in neonates and how does it resolve?
Mottling is a blotchy or lace-like pattern of dusky erythema over the extremities and trunk of neonates, occurring with exposure to cold environments. It is a common physiological response due to immature autonomic control of the cutaneous vascular plexus and typically resolves spontaneously within 6 months of age upon rewarming.
What is Harlequin Color Change and what does it indicate?
Harlequin Color Change is a rare vascular phenomenon in full-term newborns, characterized by an erythematous flush on one side of the body when placed in a lateral position, with the upper half becoming pale. This condition usually subsides within seconds but may persist for up to 20 minutes. It is thought to be due to immaturity of autonomic vasomotor control and is seldom seen after 10 days of age.
What are sucking blisters and how do they develop in neonates?
Sucking blisters are solitary, intact, oval or linear blisters that may be present at birth or develop during the first weeks of life due to intrauterine sucking. They typically arise on noninflamed skin on the forearms, wrists, or fingers and resolve within a few days. If the affected extremity is brought to the infant’s mouth, it often confirms the diagnosis as the infant will commence sucking at the site.
What is Benign Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis and how does it differ from true infantile acne?
Benign Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis is characterized by acneiform facial eruptions that develop within the first 30 days of life, affecting about 50% of newborns. It is attributed to overgrowth of Malassezia spp. and usually resolves spontaneously. True infantile acne is less common, distinguished by later onset and the presence of comedones, acneiform cysts, and scars.
What are the implications of birthmarks in newborns?
Birthmarks are common in newborns and can range from benign conditions like nevus simplex to more concerning conditions such as large segmental hemangiomas. While most birthmarks have.
What is characterized by acneiform facial eruptions in newborns?
It is characterized by acneiform facial eruptions that develop within the first 30 days of life, affecting about 50% of newborns. It is attributed to overgrowth of Malassezia spp. and usually resolves spontaneously.
What distinguishes true infantile acne from other conditions?
True infantile acne is less common, distinguished by later onset and the presence of comedones, acneiform cysts, and scars.
What are the implications of birthmarks in newborns?
Birthmarks are common in newborns and can range from benign conditions like nevus simplex to more concerning conditions such as large segmental hemangiomas. While most birthmarks have little medical or psychosocial consequence, the social and cultural impact of a disfiguring birthmark on both the patient and the parents should not be underestimated.
What is Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis characterized by?
Multiple superficial vesicles and pustules with ruptured lesions evident as collarettes of scale.
What causes Miliaria Rubra in neonates?
It results from eccrine gland occlusion due to fever or overheating.
What is the typical appearance of mottling in neonates?
A blotchy or lace-like pattern of dusky erythema over the extremities and trunk.
What is Harlequin Color Change in newborns?
A rare vascular phenomenon where an erythematous flush develops on one side of the body when placed on that side.
What are sucking blisters and when do they typically appear?
Solitary, intact blisters that may be present at birth or during the first weeks of life due to intrauterine sucking.
What is the common outcome for Benign Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis?
Most cases resolve spontaneously within the first 30 days of life.
What are the characteristics and clinical significance of Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis in newborns?
- Idiopathic pustular eruption that resolves with hyperpigmented macules.
- Less common than erythema toxicum neonatorum, more prevalent in newborns with darkly pigmented skin.
- Usually present at birth or shortly thereafter, may appear as late as 3 weeks of age.
- Characterized by multiple superficial vesicles and pustules with ruptured lesions evident as collarettes of scale.
- Commonly found on the forehead and mandibular area, but can occur anywhere, including palms and soles.
- Smear of vesicle contents shows predominance of neutrophils with occasional eosinophils.
- Pustules usually disappear within 5 to 7 days; residual pigmented macules resolve over several weeks.
How does Miliaria Rubra differ from Miliaria Crystallina?
Condition | Presentation | Underlying Cause |
|————————|—————————————————————————–|———————————————————————————-|
| Miliaria Crystallina | Minute superficial subcorneal vesicles, often clear. | Eccrine gland occlusion due to sweat and polysaccharides from Staphylococcus epidermidis. |
| Miliaria Rubra | 1-3 mm erythematous papules and/or papulopustules with inflammation. | Deeper level of occlusion within the epidermis leading to inflammation.
- Both conditions resolve spontaneously once inciting factors are addressed.
What is the clinical significance of mottling in neonates?
- Mottling is a blotchy or lace-like pattern of dusky erythema over extremities and trunk, common in neonates due to immature autonomic control of the cutaneous vascular plexus.
- Physiologic mottling resolves spontaneously by 6 months of age and disappears on rewarming.
What are the key features of Harlequin Color Change in newborns?
- Harlequin Color Change is a rare vascular phenomenon observed in full-term newborns, low-birthweight, and premature infants.
- Characterized by an erythematous flush on the dependent side when the infant is placed on one side, with the upper half becoming pale.
- Usually subsides within a few seconds but may persist for up to 20 minutes.
- Indicates immaturity of autonomic vasomotor control; if persistent after 10 days of age, it may suggest an underlying neurologic disorder.
What are the distinguishing features of Benign Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis compared to true infantile acne?
Feature | Benign Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis | True Infantile Acne |
|——————————-|——————————————————–|————————————————–|
| Onset | Within the first 30 days of life. | Later age of onset. |
| Prevalence | Affects 50% of newborns. | Less common. |
| Characteristics | Eruptions attributed to Malassezia spp. | Presence of comedones, acneiform cysts, and scars. |
| Resolution | Most resolve spontaneously; can be treated topically. | May require more extensive treatment.
What are dermal melanocytosis commonly known as?
Dermal melanocytosis are commonly known as ‘Mongolian spots’ and are typically located on the lumbo-sacral or buttock skin of infants.
What is the significance of multiple café-au-lait macules in infants?
Multiple café-au-lait macules raise the possibility of neurofibromatosis type 1, which is progressive and cannot be excluded based on a neonatal examination with only one or a few macules present.
How are congenital melanocytic nevi classified based on size?
Size | Classification |
|——–|—————-|
| Small | <1.5 cm |
| Medium | 1.5 - 10 cm |
| Large | 10 - 30 cm |
| Giant | >30 cm |
What is pigmentary mosaicism and how does it manifest on the body?
Pigmentary mosaicism, or patterned dyschromatosis, is characterized by areas of skin hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation determined by genetic mutations in skin cell progenitors. It tends not to cross the midline of the body and may appear in curvilinear patterns along Blaschko lines or as checkerboard, phylloid, or patchy patterns.
What is nevus depigmentosus and when might it become more visible?
Nevus depigmentosus is a well-demarcated hypopigmented patch present from birth that may become more visible in the first year of life as the background skin pigmentation of the newborn gradually increases.
What is the primary characteristic of nevus anemicus?
Nevus anemicus is characterized by a hypopigmented patch that results from focal vasoconstriction and is attributed to skin vessel hypersensitivity to catecholamines.
What are the common locations for nevus simplex?
Nevus simplex, colloquially known as ‘salmon patch,’ ‘stork bite,’ or ‘angel kiss,’ is most commonly found on the glabella, upper eyelids, and nuchal area.
What distinguishes infantile hemangiomas from other vascular anomalies?
Infantile hemangiomas are the most common tumors of infancy and must be differentiated from vascular malformations and other vascular anomalies.
What are Mongolian spots commonly known as?
Dermal melanocytosis.
Where are café-au-lait macules typically located?
They are well-demarcated tan macules or patches, commonly found on the skin.
What is the significance of multiple café-au-lait macules?
They raise the possibility of neurofibromatosis type 1.
What is a classic congenital melanocytic nevus?
A melanocytic nevus present at birth or appearing within the first few months of life.
What is pigmentary mosaicism?
Areas of skin hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation determined by genetic mutations in skin cell progenitors.
What is nevus depigmentosus?
A well-demarcated hypopigmented patch present from birth that may become more visible as the newborn’s skin pigmentation increases.
What is nevus anemicus?
A hypopigmented patch resulting from focal vasoconstriction and skin vessel hypersensitivity to catecholamines.
What is the most common type of vascular birthmark in infants?
Nevus simplex, also known as a salmon patch, stork bite, or angel kiss.
What are infantile hemangiomas?
The most common tumors of infancy that must be differentiated from vascular malformations and other vascular anomalies.
What are vascular malformations?
A heterogeneous group of vascular dysplasias that encompass slow-flow malformations such as capillary, venous, and lymphatic.
What are the clinical implications of multiple café-au-lait macules in a neonate?
Multiple café-au-lait macules raise the possibility of neurofibromatosis type 1. It is important to note that findings of NF type 1 are progressive, and a potential diagnosis cannot be excluded based solely on the presence of one or a few café-au-lait macules in a neonatal examination.
How does the presence of large congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) affect the risk of melanoma in infants?
Large and giant congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) are associated with an increased risk of melanoma. This risk is particularly significant if the CMN has a posterior axial location or if there are more than 20 satellite nevi present. Newborns with more than 2 medium-sized CMN are also at increased risk of neurocutaneous melanocytosis.
What is the significance of nevus depigmentosus in a newborn?
Nevus depigmentosus is a well-demarcated hypopigmented patch present from birth that may become more visible as the newborn’s skin pigmentation increases. The presence of three or more nevus depigmentosus/hypomelanotic patches should prompt evaluation for possible tuberous sclerosis complex.
What differentiates nevus anemicus from nevus depigmentosus during a clinical examination?
Nevus anemicus is characterized by a hypopigmented patch resulting from focal vasoconstriction and will blanch when pressure is applied with a glass slide (diascopy). In contrast, the border of a nevus depigmentosus remains crisp despite diascopy, making this a key differentiating factor during examination.
What are the characteristics and common locations of nevus simplex in neonates?
Nevus simplex, also known as a ‘salmon patch’, ‘stork bite’, or ‘angel kiss’, represents a superficial vascular ectasia of the capillaries. It is most commonly found on the glabella, upper eyelids, and nuchal area. These marks appear frequently in all races, with a majority fading over the first 2 years of life, although those on the occipital scalp tend to persist.
What is a nevus sebaceous and what are its potential complications?
A nevus sebaceous is a benign skin hamartoma comprised of numerous sebaceous glands, typically appearing as a yellow-hued hairless plaque on the head of newborns. Potential complications include:
- Development of secondary benign neoplasms such as trichoblastoma or syringocystadenoma papilliferum.
- Rarely, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) may arise within a nevus sebaceous.
- Widespread nevus sebaceous may be associated with increased risk of abnormalities in the central nervous system, eye, or skeletal systems (Schimmelpenning syndrome).
What are the characteristics and treatment options for epidermal nevus?
Epidermal nevus is characterized by curvilinear arrays of tan-brown hyperkeratotic papules and/or thin, elongated rough plaques that follow the lines of Blaschko. Treatment options include:
- Surgical excision, which can result in large scars and restrict range of motion in some locations.
- Laser treatment and local dermal shave excision, though these carry a high recurrence risk.
- Infants with widespread epidermal nevi should be evaluated for associated diseases of the central nervous, ocular, and skeletal systems.
What are the implications of midline facial lesions in neonates?
Midline facial lesions, such as dermoid cysts, can be markers of cranial dysraphism. They may indicate:
- Possible associated malformations, which are important for diagnosis and management.
- The need for radiologic evaluation to rule out intracranial connections before a skin biopsy.
- High-risk lumbosacral anomalies may also be present, necessitating further investigation.
What is the significance of a human tail in neonates?
A human tail is a rare developmental anomaly that may be composed of vestigial appendages including adipose tissue, blood vessels, muscle fibers, and nerves. Its presence may indicate other underlying developmental issues and warrants further evaluation.
What are the characteristics of meningocele and myelomeningocele?
Meningocele involves the herniation of meninges and cerebrospinal fluid through a defect in the calvarium or vertebrae, often associated with a persistent intracranial defect. Myelomeningocele includes neural tissue of the spinal cord and is the most common presentation of spina bifida. Preoperative imaging is recommended for both conditions prior to surgical excision and reconstruction.
What is a nevus sebaceous and where is it commonly found?
A benign skin hamartoma comprised of numerous sebaceous glands, commonly found as a yellow-hued hairless plaque on the head of newborns.
What are the potential complications associated with widespread nevus sebaceous?
Increased risk of abnormalities in the central nervous system, eye, or skeletal systems (Schimmelpenning or nevus sebaceus syndrome).
What is the appearance of an epidermal nevus?
Curvilinear arrays of tan-brown hyperkeratotic papules and/or thin, elongated rough plaques that follow the lines of Blaschko.
What is the significance of minor congenital anomalies in newborns?
Single minor congenital anomalies occur in approximately 15% of newborns and usually have no functional significance, but 3 or more may warrant a complete physical examination to rule out other congenital abnormalities.
What are dermoid cysts and where do they typically arise?
Dermoid cysts typically arise along planes of embryonic fusion of the face and scalp and may adhere to the underlying periosteum.
What is a nasal glioma composed of?
A nasal glioma is composed of heterotopic neural tissue and may distort central facial structures.