Erythema Toxicum: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction:

Erythema toxicum, also known as Erythema toxicum neonatorum (ETN), is a skin condition in newborn babies. It usually appears shortly after birth and can last several days to a few weeks. ETN is harmless and does not require treatment. However, it can be alarming to parents. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of the erythema toxicum.

What Is Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum?

Erythema toxicum neonatorum, commonly known as ETN, is a common newborn skin rash that usually appears in the first few days of life. It usually appears as small red or white bumps on the baby’s skin with a reddish halo around them. In some cases, the bumps can become larger and more inflamed. The rash usually appears on the trunk, arms, and legs, but it can also occur on the face. ETN is not contagious and typically clears up without treatment within two to three weeks.

Who Can Get Erythema Toxicum?

Erythema toxicum neonatorum is a benign skin condition that usually occurs in up to 80 % of full-term babies and less frequently in premature babies. However, it can affect any baby, regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity. Generally, it does not cause any long-term health issues and resolves on its own within a few weeks.

What Causes Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum?

The exact cause of erythema toxicum neonatorum is still unknown. However, it is believed to be caused by an allergic reaction to substances such as bacteria or fungi found on the skin. A reaction to certain foods and medications can also trigger it.

The rash may also be caused by an increase in hormones or the number of white blood cells responsible for fighting off infection. The rash could also result from an underlying medical condition, such as an infection or an autoimmune disorder.

Another possible cause of erythema toxicum neonatorum is that it occurs due to inflammation and bacteria around the hair follicles. They can cause the rash to develop more quickly.

What Are the Symptoms of Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum?

The common symptoms of ETN are small,fluid-filled bumps containing fluids that look like pus. The bumps may disappear and form in new areas over time. The baby may also have a skin rash around the bumps. Erythema toxicum typically presents with erythematous macules, papules, and pustules on the face and body. The rash usually occurs within the first few days of birth and resolves spontaneously without treatment after several weeks.

The macules are red patches ranging from one millimeter to ten millimeters in diameter. They may or may not be raised and can appear anywhere on the body but most commonly on the chest and abdomen.

The papules are small, red bumps that are slightly raised and can range from one millimeter to five millimeters in diameter. They are usually scattered across the chest, abdomen, arms, and legs.

The pustules are slightly raised yellow or white dots that range from one millimeter to 3 millimeters in diameter. They may be scattered across the same areas as the papules.

The rash associated with ETN is usually self-limited and does not require any treatment. However, the rash may be itchy, and a mild topical corticosteroid may be prescribed to provide relief.

How Is Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of erythema toxicum neonatorum is usually made through a physical examination by a doctor. The rash is typically distinctive and easily recognizable, making it easy to diagnose without another testing. Sometimes, the doctor may use a Tzanck smear to confirm the diagnosis. It involves a small, sharp tool called a scalpel to remove the pustule, take a sample of the affected area, and look at it under the microscope. If necessary, a biopsy may be performed, and cultures of the pustule can also be done to identify if any bacterial infection is present.

How Is Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum Treated?

Treatment of erythema toxicum neonatorum is generally unnecessary, as the condition typically resolves itself within a few weeks. However, if the rash is causing discomfort, the following can be done to provide relief:

• Avoid picking and touching the pustules.

• Keeping baby cool, as warm temperatures can aggravate ETN.

• Avoid overdressing the baby or wrapping them in tight clothing or blankets.

• Keep the baby’s skin clean and dry.

• Consider using mild, unscented soaps or cleansers for bathing.

• Do not use topical creams or ointments unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.

• Use soft, breathable fabric for clothing and bedding.

• Use a mild moisturizing lotion after baths to help keep skin hydrated.

• If the baby is particularly uncomfortable, the doctor may prescribe an oral antihistamine (a drug that inhibits the physiological effects of histamine and is particularly useful in treating allergies) to relieve itching and inflammation.

Can Erythema Toxicum Neonatorum be Prevented?

Unfortunately, erythema toxicum neonatorum is a fairly common condition, and there is no known way to prevent it. It is thought to be caused by a reaction between bacteria on the baby’s skin and the body’s natural response to that bacteria, so even careful hygiene practices may not prevent it. However, parents must practice good hygiene to reduce their baby’s risk of other illnesses and infections.

When Should a Person Call the Doctor?

It is important to call the doctor if any of the following signs and symptoms appear in the baby:

• Blisters or oozing sores.

• Cold symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.

• Lethargy (a state of being excessively tired).

• Fever.

• Rash that bleeds.

• Rash that persists longer than two weeks.

• If someone notices these signs, they must call the doctor immediately. Then, the doctor can diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of treatment.

Conclusion:

Erythema toxicum neonatorum (ETN) is a common and harmless skin condition that affects newborns. While the cause of ETN is unknown, it is thought to be related to immune system response. ETN can be easily identified by its characteristic rash, which consists of tiny red spots with a white or yellow center. ETN does not typically cause complications and usually resolves on its own within the first week of life. Although there is no specific treatment for ETN, parents need to talk to their pediatrician about any concerns.