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Highlights & Basics
- Diaper rash is primarily an irritant contact dermatitis.
- It is most common in the first 2 years of life, but can occur in a person of any age who routinely wears diapers.
- Diagnosis is made by characteristic skin findings in the area of the body covered by a diaper; erythema of the convex surfaces of the buttocks is the classic finding.
- Initial treatment involves reinforcing good diapering practices, such as frequent diaper changes, use of superabsorbent disposable diapers, periods of diaper-free time, and application of barrier cream, ointment, or paste.
- Recalcitrant diaper rash may signal secondary infection or underlying systemic or dermatologic disorders, and requires further evaluation.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
Lebsing S, Chaiyarit J, Techasatian L. Diaper rashes can indicate systemic conditions other than diaper dermatitis. BMC Dermatol. 2020 Sep 21;20(1):7.[Abstract][Full Text]
Šikić Pogačar M, Maver U, Marčun Varda N, et al. Diagnosis and management of diaper dermatitis in infants with emphasis on skin microbiota in the diaper area. Int J Dermatol. 2018 Mar;57(3):265-75.[Abstract]
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