User:Mr. Ibrahem/Diaper dermatitis

Diaper dermatitis, also known as diaper rash, is a generic term applied to skin rashes in the diaper area. Generally there are areas of redness and scaling often with the skin folds spared. If diaper dermatitis is complicated by a bacterial or fungal infection small blisters, involvement of the skin folds, or small areas of redness outside the main area of redness may occur.

Diaper dermatitis is usually a form of irritant contact dermatitis. Less common causes include allergies to substances used in the diaper area, infection, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis. The condition can be worsened by antibiotics by mouth, gastroenteritis, and malnutrition. Infections generally occurs in someone who already has irritant or allergic dermatitis. Diagnosis is usually based on the appearance.

Prevention includes the use of diapers which are superabsorbent and have a low potential to result in allergies. Treatment includes changing diapers as soon as they become dirty, cleaning the area with warm water during diaper changes, and applying moisturizer to the area. In those who also have an infectious component, antifungals such as nystatin or antibiotic creams such as bacitracin/polymyxin B may be used. A weak steroid creams may also be helpful.

Diaper dermatitis is the most common rash in babies affected up to half of those in diapers. It occurs most commonly in children 9 to 12 months old and is the reason for up to a quarter of skin related health care visits in those under the age of one. It occurs less commonly in cultures were diapers are less commonly worn. The first clear description of diaper rash dates from 1905, though prior description date from at least 1887.