The diseases in this chapter have dominant epidermal changes (clinical scaling, pathologic changes of spongiosis and parakeratosis), as opposed to rashes in 3, 4 , which primarily have dermal changes. It has been said by Levine that the diseases in…
Introduction The term reactive erythema refers to a group of disorders characterized by erythematous patches, plaques, and nodules that vary in size, shape, and distribution. Unlike other specific and intrinsic dermatoses, these represent cutaneous reaction patterns triggered by a variety…
The differential diagnostic lists that follow in this chapter serve as a starting point for evaluation of an unknown skin biopsy. Such lists have some advantages over algorithms because they provide multiple pathways for getting back on track toward the…
Introduction Although most disorders of pigmentation in infancy and childhood are of cosmetic concern only, some provide clues to an underlying multisystem disease. Disorders of pigmentation may be differentiated clinically by the presence of either increased or decreased pigmentation (and…
Introduction Nodules and tumors in the skin often raise fears of skin cancer. Fortunately, primary skin cancer is extremely rare in childhood, and most infiltrated plaques and tumors are benign ( Table 5.1 ). Hemangiomas, congenital nevi, and tumors of…
Introduction Vesiculopustular eruptions range from benign, self-limited conditions to life-threatening diseases. Early diagnosis, especially in the young or immunocompromised child, is mandatory. An algorithmic approach to diagnosis for vesiculopustular dermatoses is summarized at the end of the chapter (see Fig.…
Introduction Papulosquamous eruptions comprise a group of disorders characterized by the presence of superficial papules and scale. These conditions account for a large number of patients in both pediatric dermatology and pediatric primary-care practice. In disorders of keratinization (psoriasis, pityriasis…
Introduction Newborn skin differs from adult skin in several important ways ( Table 2.1 ). It has less hair and fewer sweat and sebaceous gland secretions, is thinner, has fewer intercellular attachments, and has fewer melanosomes. These differences are magnified…
Although chiefly of cosmetic significance, disorders of pigmentation are among the most conspicuous and thus can have profound psychosocial implications for pediatric patients. The most important pigments in skin are melanin, reduced and oxygenated hemoglobin, and carotene. Melanin is a…
Anatomy and function of the skin Most of us think of skin as a simple, durable covering for the skeleton and internal organs. Yet skin is actually a very complex and dynamic organ consisting of many parts and appendages (…