Baby Rash

[madnikki]

My thirteen month old twin daughters have rashes around their mouths. It is red, kind of scaly. I figured that it was just dry skin because they are drooling so much, but after applying a pretty heavy cream several times a day for the last few days it still doesn't appear any better. Does anyone have an idea what this may be? One of them had Fifth Disease a few weeks ago. Could this be part of it? I'm in the process of changing their insurance, so it will probably be a couple of weeks before I can take them to see their doctor.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Without examination confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be perioral dermatitis or eczema.P typically affects the nasolabial folds, perioral area or perioccular area.

Perioral dermatitis is a chronic papulopustular and eczematous facial dermatitis.It is usually characterized by an uncomfortable burning sensation around the mouth. Itching is not a common symptom.Treatment consists of oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. A mild soap or soap substitute, such as Dove or Cetaphil should be used for washing. Scrubbing should be avoided.

If the symptoms are not controlled by topical antibiotics,then oral antibiotics may be needed.Pls consult your daughters’ doctor and discuss this with them.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep us posted if you have any additional queries