Diaper (napkin) dermatitis: A fold (intertriginous) dermatosis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dermatology
• Infant Health

Background:

• Diaper (napkin) dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition in infants and children.
• Historically attributed to ammonia, current understanding identifies multifactorial causes including friction, wetness, and microbial factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the causes, presentation, differential diagnosis, and management of diaper dermatitis.
• To emphasize the importance of proper diaper hygiene and appropriate product selection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of diaper dermatitis.
• Analysis of contributing factors and clinical presentation.
• Discussion of diagnostic considerations and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• Diaper dermatitis presents as irritant contact dermatitis in the diaper area, affecting the lower abdomen, thighs, and folds.
• Early signs include dryness, progressing to erythema, maceration, and edema; secondary infections are common.
• Differential diagnosis includes allergic contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.

Conclusions:

• Eliminating causative factors, such as maintaining a clean, dry diaper area and frequent changes, is primary.
• Superabsorbent diapers have reduced incidence; avoidance of harsh cleaning agents is recommended.
• Treatment may involve topical corticosteroids, antifungals, antibacterials, or calcineurin inhibitors as needed.