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Red and irritated skin in the diaper area. There are many causes. The most common are fungal, irritant contact, and seborrheic dermatitis.
Fungal diaper rash is caused by a yeast called
Irritant contact dermatitis is caused by skin rubbing against a wet, soiled diaper.
Seborrheic dermatitis does not have a clear cause but may also be due to a fungus called
Redness in the diaper area.
Fungal
Rash is worse in the skinfolds (creases) within the diaper area.
Redness often bordered by red pimples (“satellite lesions”).
Rash may have a shiny appearance.
Sores or cracking or oozing skin present in severe cases.
Irritant contact
The rash spares the creases and emphasizes areas in contact with the diaper (inner thighs, genital areas, and buttocks)
Absence of satellite lesions
Seborrheic
Red, greasy scales in diaper area. May also be located on scalp, face, ears, and neck.
Incubation period for fungal diaper rash: Unknown.
Contagious period: The yeast that infects the diaper area is widespread in the environment, normally lives on the skin, and is found in the mouth and stool.
Yeast
A warm environment (eg, diaper area) fosters growth and spread.
None of these causes of diaper rash are spread from one child to another.
Use good hand-hygiene technique at all the times listed in Chapter 2.
Candidal (yeast) diaper rash: Treat with an antifungal cream so the quantity of yeast in any area is reduced to levels the body can control.
Contact/irritant diaper dermatitis: Keep the skin dry and reduce irritation through friction from rubbing of a diaper or other clothing. Avoid soaps or wipes that contain fragrance. Frequent diaper changes, air exposure, or avoiding rubbing of material against the involved skin may help.
Seborrhea: Treatment with antifungal cream or shampoo may help.
Report the infection to the staff member designated by the child care program or school for decision-making and action related to care of ill children. That person, in turn, alerts the parents/guardians so they can seek treatment for the child.
Administer prescribed medication as instructed by the child’s health professional.
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The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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