cradle cap

Question 1

what’s cradle cap

Answer 1

-harmless skin condition common in babies
-also known as seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp but can also occur in other areas of the body
-it’s not contagious

Question 2

scientific cause of cradle cap

Answer 2

Overactive sebaceous glands on scalp will over produce sebum (oily substance)

Question 3

how to diagnosis/ symptoms cradle cap

Answer 3

-usually found on the scalp and face
-sometimes affects the nappy area
-not itchy or painful/ doesn’t bother baby
-small dry flakes of skin

Question 4

management of cradle cap

Answer 4

-gently washing the baby’s hair and scalp
-lightly massaging an emollient to help loosen the scales e.g. Vaseline
-don’t pick crusts as it can increase the chance of infection
-if very severe consider hydrocortisone 1% cream if significant inflammation. Topical imidazole (antifungal creams) e.g. clotrimazole

Question 5

Treatment of cradle cap

Answer 5

-if very severe consider hydrocortisone 1% cream if significant inflammation. Topical imidazole (antifungal creams) e.g. clotrimazole if it is severe in general