SERVICES

PAEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY

Infants and young children often have sensitive skin, which is vulnerable to a range of skin conditions. Paediatric dermatology includes congenital skin diseases, which the baby will be born with or acquired, which develop during the child’s life. Common skin conditions in children include; congenital nevi (birthmarks), nappy rash, cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis), atopic eczema, chicken pox and fungal and bacterial skin infections. With her compassion for dermatology and kind-hearted nature, Dr Spengane welcomes little ones to her practice creating a welcoming space for even the youngest of patients.

COMMON PAEDIATRIC SKIN CONDITIONS

1. Eczema (atopic, nummular, contact, allergic) – these often manifest as a dry, itchy, red rash. This is usually as a result of genetic predisposition (atopy) or sometimes be due to chemicals, soaps and detergents or certain medications.
2. Seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap) – this is a type of eczema common in infants. Usually affects the, scalp, neck, axilla and nappy area. It presents as white or yellow greasy scales on the scalp, and a red rash in the folds.
3. Birthmarks, growths and moles – most birthmarks, growths and moles are usually harmless, but if you have any suspicions or see a change in the mole, make an appointment to have it examined.
4. Infections

Viral infections:

• Herpes viruses - the most common which is herpes virus 1 causes the common cold sore/fever blister. The second most common is herpes virus 3 (varicella). Which causes chickenpox. Both are highly contagious causing an itchy, blister-like rash on the skin. One should seek treatment early to prevent spreading.
• Warts – these are small, firm bumps on the skin caused by a subtype of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are usually harmless, but tend to spread causing embarrassment or discomfort. There are various treatments of warts offered by your dermatologist
• Molluscum contagiousum – caused by the pox virus, presents as skin-coloured to pearly wart-like pimples which spread quickly and are highly contagious.

Fungal infections

• Tinea (ringworm) - a contagious fungal infection of the skin, hair and nails. It usually presents as a circular rash on the body or round patch of hair loss on the scalp. It is a common cause of itching.

Bacterial infections

• Impetigo – this is a superficial bacterial infection of the skin caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Can affect any part of the body and usually needs an antibiotic treatment.
• Folliculitis - bacterial infection caused by a bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus. Presents as pus pimples that can affect any part of the body, this too requires treatment with an antibiotics.