Viruses are ultramicroscopic organisms that grow only within living cells. The antigenic material responsible for viral immunologic reactions is present in the outer protein membrane (capsid) of the virus. The nucleoprotein core is composed of either deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or…
The normal skin of healthy infants and children is resistant to invasion by most bacteria because the cutaneous surface provides a dry mechanical barrier from which contaminating organisms are constantly removed by desquamation. Under normal conditions the skin is sterile…
Blisters or bullae are round or irregularly shaped lesions of the skin or mucous membranes that result from the accumulation of fluid between the cells of the epidermis and sometimes between the epidermis and dermis. The term bullae refers to…
Classification of vascular lesions Vascular birthmarks, or congenital vascular anomalies, are common lesions that may present in a variety of fashions. There has traditionally been a significant amount of confusion regarding the nomenclature of these lesions, and the term hemangioma…
Introduction Nails are specialized cutaneous appendages composed of hard keratins similar to those found in hair, and are unique to primates. In humans, nails function as a stabilizing unit to aid in tactile sensation, grasping, and scratching. Well-manicured or adorned…
Introduction This chapter covers neonatal hair patterns, genetic hair shaft abnormalities, and the conditions in which hypo- or hypertrichosis are present in the neonatal period. There are many syndromes in which hypotrichosis or atrichia occur, and those in which it…
Introduction Examination of the mucous membranes is an important, yet often overlooked, part of the neonatal evaluation. This chapter discusses abnormal cutaneous findings of the oral, genital, and ocular systems. Many of these abnormalities provide important clues to the diagnosis…
Approach to the child with a genetic skin condition To effectively care for an affected newborn and provide information for anxious parents, an organized diagnostic approach is essential. The physical exam requires special attention to ectodermal involvement by assessing the…
Introduction Skin disorders characterized by infiltrative lesions can be present at birth or develop during the first few months of life. Some represent frank neoplasms, both benign and malignant, whereas others are the result of metabolic errors. In most instances,…
Introduction The subcutaneous fat cushions the overlying skin, insulates and provides energy storage, and protects underlying soft tissue and bony structures. Although not fully functional at birth, a well-developed fatty layer is present in the neonate, even when premature. Disorders…