Diaper Dermatitis

Overview

This is a childhood skin disorder. It affects young children under the age of 2 years. It is an inflammation of the skin resulting from skin irritation of chemicals in urine and faeces.

Causes

Diaper dermatitis is the result of prolonged skin contact with urine and faeces. Tight occlusion of faeces and urine by diaper covers increase the penetration of these alkaline substances through the skin.

Signs & Symptoms

There are 4 presentations:

  • The most common presentation is "chafing dermatitis". This is most frequently observed at 7 to 12 months of age, when the baby's urine volume exceeds the absorbing capacity of the diaper. There is involvement of the convex surface of the thighs, buttocks and waist area.
  • The second is "perianal dermatitis" where the dermatitis is limited to the area around the anus. This is seen in newborns who have experienced diarrhoea.
  • The third presentation is characterized by shallow ulcers scattered throughout the diaper area.
  • The fourth presentation consists of confluent redness with satellite lesions involving the inguinal areas and the genitalia. This is due to a secondary yeast (a fungal) infection.

Detection & Treatment

Consult your doctor for advice. Avoid self-medication.


The basis for treatment in diaper dermatitis is to remove the urine and faeces from the skin surface and prevent skin maceration by keeping the diaper area dry.

  • Lubrication of diapered skin with a greasy ointment decreases the severity of diaper dermatitis and protects the skin from urine and faeces.
  • Very frequent diaper changes followed by application of ointment limits maceration and prevent recurrences.
  • Diaper change a few hours after the baby goes to sleep and reducing fluids just before bedtime may help.
  • Avoid plastic and rubber pants.
  • Yeast infection in the diaper area requires antifungal creams. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate medication.
  • In severe dermatitis, your doctor may prescribe hydrocortisone 1 % cream twice daily to help decrease the infant's discomfort.

Specialties & Services

Dermatology