Pediatric Common Skin Disorders
There are many common skin disorders that require the clinical care of a physician or other healthcare professional.
Common skin conditions are grouped into the following categories:
What are fungal infections?
Skin fungi live in the top layer of skin cells in moist areas of the body, such as between the toes or in the groin and diaper area. Sometimes, the normal balances that keep fungi in check are upset, resulting in an infection.
Some fungal infections cause only a small amount of irritation, while other types penetrate deeper and can cause itching, swelling, blistering, or scaling.
In some cases, fungal infections can cause reactions elsewhere on the body. A child can develop a rash on the finger or hand associated with an infection of the scalp or foot, for instance.
Tinea Infections (Ringworm)
What is ringworm (tinea infection)?
Different fungi, depending on their location on a child's body, cause ringworm. Ringworm is characterized by ring-shaped red, scaly patches with clear centers. The risk of contracting ringworm increases if the child:
- Is malnourished
- Has poor hygiene
- Lives in a warm climate
- Has contact with other children or pets that have ringworm
- Is immunocompromised by disease or medication
What are the most common types of ringworm?
The most common types of ringworm include the following:
- Athlete's foot (tinea pedis or foot ringworm)
- Jock itch (tinea cruris or groin ringworm)
- Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis)
- Nail ringworm (tinea unguium)
- Body ringworm (tinea corporis)
How is ringworm diagnosed?
Ringworm is usually diagnosed based on a medical history and physical examination of the child. The lesions of ringworm are unique, and usually allow for a diagnosis simply on physical examination. The physician may also order a culture or skin scraping of the lesion to confirm the diagnosis.
What is the treatment for ringworm?
Because the fungi can live indefinitely on the skin, recurrences of ringworm are likely, and treatment may need to be repeated. Specific treatment will be determined by the physician based on:
- The child's age, overall health, and medical history
- Extent of the condition
- Location of the ringworm
- The child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the condition
- Child or parent’s opinion or preference
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