Pediatric dermatology

Pediatric dermatology is a specialized branch of dermatology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric dermatologists are medical professionals who have received additional training to address the unique dermatological needs of pediatric patients.

Key aspects of pediatric dermatology include:

• Common Childhood Skin Conditions: Pediatric dermatologists diagnose and treat a wide range of skin conditions that commonly affect children. These may include eczema, diaper rash, acne, warts, birthmarks, and various infections.
• Genetic and Congenital Skin Disorders: Pediatric dermatology involves the management of genetic and congenital skin disorders that may be present from birth or manifest during childhood. Examples include ichthyosis, epidermolysis bullosa, and vascular malformations.
• Inflammatory Skin Conditions: Conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema), psoriasis, and contact dermatitis may require specialized care for pediatric patients.
• Birthmarks and Vascular Lesions: Pediatric dermatologists assess and manage various types of birthmarks, including hemangiomas, port-wine stains, and congenital melanocytic nevi.
• Infectious Skin Diseases: Diagnosing and treating infections such as impetigo, molluscum contagiosum, fungal infections, and viral exanthems are common in pediatric dermatology.
• Hemangiomas and Vascular Malformations: Pediatric dermatologists often manage vascular anomalies, including hemangiomas and other vascular malformations, through medical and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
• Hair and Nail Disorders: Conditions affecting the hair and nails, such as alopecia areata, tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), and congenital nail disorders, fall within the scope of pediatric dermatology.
• Photodermatology: Sun protection and the management of conditions related to sun exposure, such as sunburn and polymorphic light eruption, are important considerations in pediatric dermatology.