SKIN INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN
Viral infections
Viral warts, molluscum contagiosum, hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) are common viral infections affecting children.
- Viral warts - harmless, but may be unsightly, uncomfortable and contagious. They may take on different appearances and it is best to have suspected lesions assessed by a dermatologist. Treatment is usually by medicated solutions, freezing with liquid nitrogen, shave and electrocautery or CO2 laser. We have different numbing strategies to ensure the treatment is as comfortable as possible for your child.
- Molluscum contagiosum - small dome shaped bumps on the skin with a little depression in the middle. Common in young children and spreads easily, especially after scratching. Treatment may include prescribed medicated creams, pricking or freezing.
- Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) – small red spots appear on palms, soles, and buttocks with painful mouth ulcers. Very contagious and spreads easily to other young children. Commonly associated with fever, sore throat and loss of appetite. Have your child diagnosed early so that symptomatic treatment can be given and they can rest at home till all the rashes clear up.
BACTERIAL INFECTIONS
Bacterial infections such as folliculitis or impetigo are common in children. Folliculitis appears as multiple small “pimples” around hair-bearing areas. Impetigo present as crusted, scabbed over patches that may be weepy or sore. This is more often seen in children with eczema. Such infections can spread to other children easily, therefore early treatment is recommended. Treatment is by topical or oral antibiotics, antiseptic washes and good hygiene.
FUNGAL INFECTIONS
Fungal infections are common in our hot, humid climate. Candida infections are often seen in moist, warm areas such as the nappy area. The affected areas can become red, painful with surrounding red spots. These can sometimes be mistaken for “pimples” and wrongly treated with antibiotics. Another common fungal infection seen is pityrosporum folliculitis, which may look like back acne to the untrained eye. This can cause itchy red spots on the chest and back, which worsen in hot, sweaty environments. Treatment is by topical and oral anti-fungal medicines, in addition to keeping cool and dry.