Dry Skin Rashes in Infants

Rashes are common in infants, and almost never require emergency physician care. Dry rashes can often accompany a fever or fussiness, and are often caused by harmless viral illnesses. Rashes such as these usually resolve on their own within a few days. Recurrent rashes, however, should be seen by your pediatrician. If rashes are accompanied by difficulty breathing, throat constriction or persistent vomiting, take the infant to the emergency room for immediate evaluation.

Eczema

• Eczema is thought to be a result of allergies and heredity. It appears as a dry, flaking rash that can last for several days. During less severe cases, eczema appears as white dry skin, and during flare-ups the skin can be red, irritated and flaking. Eczema frequently occurs on the inner knees and elbows in infants, but patches can occur almost anywhere on the body. Some cases of eczema are temporary, and some can be recurrent. Eczema is often treated with 1 percent Hydrocortisone cream which is available over the counter. For recurrent cases consult your pediatrician for treatment.

Hives

• Hives are red welts that can spontaneously appear on an infant. They often appear on the torso, and usually last for a few minutes to a few hours. The exact cause of hives is unknown, but hive outbreaks are often linked to allergies. Benadryl is a commonly used treatment for hives, but it is best to consult your pediatrician before giving any form of medication to an infant.

Fungal Infections

• Fungal infections can appear anywhere on the body, and usually require prescription antifungal medications for treatment. Tinea, or Ringworm, is a dry rash caused by a fungal infection. The rash appears as round, flat skin irritations which have pink or red scaly rings with a clear circle in the middle. Tinea is contagious, so be sure to practice increased hand washing and keep small children separated.

Viral Conditions

• Rashes caused by viral infections are usually common and harmless. Fifth's disease causes a fever, bright red cheeks, and a lacy rash on the limbs and torso. Fifth's disease is spread through moisture particles which are breathed out by an infected person. Treatment for viral illnesses is usually based on alleviation of symptoms. Chickenpox causes small itchy welts all over the body, and lasts several days to a week. This condition, like most viral illnesses, is highly contagious so practice frequent hand washing and separate small children.

Serious Dry Rashes

• Serious dry rashes are rare, and the rash is usually a symptom of a more serious condition. Petechial or purpuric rashes are often red or purple, and can be very dangerous. If the rash does not momentarily disappear when pressed on, this is a sign you should seek medical advice. To do this test, place a glass on the baby's skin and press. If the rash does not lighten, this may be a serious rash. Illnesses associated with this kind of rash include Meningococcal infection, severe infection or even Leukemia.