Children have special needs when it comes to skin conditions. That’s why pediatric dermatologists have expertise in how certain skin conditions uniquely affect infants and children, and which treatments are safe and effective. There are some skin conditions that are common in both adults and children, and some that are specific to each.
Adult Skin Conditions
Common dermatological conditions in adults that require treatment include:
- Abscesses
- Acne
- Acne rosacea
- Actinic keratosis
- Cysts
- Dry skin
- Eczema
- Hair Loss
- Melasma or brown or grayish patches on the skin
- Moles
- Nail fungus and disease
- Psoriasis
- Rashes of many kinds
- Skin cancer, which has many types and presentations
- Skin tags
- Vitiligo or loss of pigment on some areas of the skin
Infants and children get some of the same diseases that adults do, but they also have some skin issues that are more common, or even unique to them.
Skin Conditions That are Common among Children
Some common conditions for infants and children include:
- Acne
- Alopecia
- Birthmarks also called congenital nevi
- Diaper dermatitis
- Eczema/atopic dermatitis and dry skin
- Cradle cap also called seborrheic dermatitis
- Fungal Infections
- Hemangiomas also called strawberry birthcaps
- Moles
- Molluscum
- Port wine stains (PWS)
- Rashes
- Skin infections
- Vitiligo
- Warts
Treating infants
Treating infants and children requires a different approach and expertise than adults, as you could probably imagine. Infants cannot communicate the same way that adults or even older children can. The doctor must observe and examine the patient for signs of medical issues. Communicating clearly with parents is also very important. The doctor will ask the parents how long an issue has been occurring, whether they notice other symptoms, changes in the infant’s behavior, etc.
Treating children
Children may be wary of doctors in general, so pediatric dermatologists must be skilled in communicating with young patients. The unique challenge of providing health care to children requires an approach that is age-appropriate and child-friendly, holistic, positive, and inclusive.
Special considerations
Diseases can affect children differently than adults, so targeted treatments may be required for both infants and children. Children may outgrow certain conditions without any treatment, but it is also important to know which conditions need attention. It’s important to be aware that some medications that are safe and appropriate for adults could be dangerous for children. Infants and children have smaller bodies, and they are developing a tolerance for various environmental factors, so dosing and prescribing medications requires a doctor who specializes in pediatric dermatology.
That’s why pediatricians will often refer their patients to a pediatric dermatologist who specializes in treating those diseases and conditions that are common and/or exclusive to pediatric patients.
Our board-certified dermatologists and certified physician assistants have advanced training in both dermatology and pediatric dermatology, and we have created a welcoming, inclusive, and kid-friendly practice.
Under the direction of Dr. Ana M. Duarte, you can rest assured that your whole family, from the youngest to the oldest and everyone in between, will receive the best care and treatments available at Children’s Skin Center. We offer a variety of minor skin procedures right in our office, including biopsies, excisions, cryosurgery, and electrodessication.
Call us if you have any questions about pediatric dermatology or to schedule your appointment, please call or text our offices at (305)-669-6555.
