Diapers & Contact Dermatitis

One of the first struggles new parents often have to face with their newborns is diaper rash. Most parents refer to the red irritated rash as "diaper rash." However, according to Beth M. Iovinelli, RN, BSN, IBCLC, in an article for BabyZone.com, it is most commonly a form of contact dermatitis. Diaper rash or diaper dermatitis is a true pain for babies and parents alike, but fortunately it is easily treated and generally quick to heal.

Symptoms

• Symptoms must be carefully observed.

  Diaper rash is extremely common, so almost every child will experience it at some time. As outlined by Children's Hospital Boston, diaper dermatitis occurs most often as a "red, scaling and, sometimes, ulcerated" rash. Diaper dermatitis occurs most often in children ages 8 to 12 months but can occur as early as age 2 months. Although most children are not able to vocalize the symptoms of diaper dermatitis, parents may observe itching, tenderness or signs of pain.

Causes

• Contact dermatitis is generally caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. With diaper dermatitis, those irritants are most commonly urine; feces; chemicals, such as soaps or ointments; or the diaper itself. Prolonged contact is not always necessary to cause contact dermatitis. According to MayoClinic.com, if dermatitis is caused by minimal contact, it is generally an allergen rather than an irritant and may be an indication of a lifelong allergy.

Complications

• Infections can be serious complications with contact dermatitis.

  Although contact dermatitis is not life-threatening, it can be very harmful if left untreated. This is especially true with diaper dermatitis. If contact dermatitis is left untreated or progresses despite treatment, it can lead to blisters and open sores that easily become infected. In cases where diaper dermatitis reaches that point, the constant contact with urine and feces makes infection very likely.

Treatment

• Medicated cream may be necessary to treat diaper dermatitis.

  As Beth M. Iovinelli, RN, BSN, IBCLC, points out, it is necessary to contact a physician to determine the exact cause of the dermatitis. Treatment in most cases depends on the cause of the condition. Common treatments include medicated creams, moisture-resistant creams and anti-inflammatory creams. According to Iovinelli, most treatments take effect within 48 to 72 hours.

Prevention

• A clean baby is less likely to be affected by dermatitis.

  The most common form of prevention for diaper dermatitis is frequent diaper changes. It is also important to use a minimum of soaps and harsh cleansers on the baby's skin. According to Children's Hospital Boston, it is crucial to make sure the diaper area is "clean and dry." It is also helpful to air the diaper area when possible. If diaper dermatitis occurs, often it may be necessary to change diaper brands or styles to prevent future outbreaks.