Neonatal seborrhoeic dermatitis

Background

• Also known as cradle cap, infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis, crusta lactea, milk crust, and honeycomb disease
• Starts between 2-6wk of life; improves by 6 months
• Malassezia furfur, non-contagious fungus

Clinical Features

• Greasy yellow-red scales
• Proclivity for scalp (cradlecap), but may find around ears, cheeks, neck
• Not pruritic
• Also axilla and groin where there are significant sebaceous glands

Differential Diagnosis

Neonatal Rashes

• Acne
• Atopic dermatitis
• Candidiasis
• Contact dermatitis
• Diaper dermatitis
• Erythema toxicum neonatorum
• Impetigo
• Mastitis
• Milia
• Miliaria
• Mongolian spots
• Omphalitis
• Perianal streptococcal dermatitis
• Psoriasis
• Pustular melanosis
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Sucking blisters
• Tinea capitis

Diagnosis

• Clinical diagnosis

Management

• Salicylic acid shampoo (Sebulex) OR
• Application of mineral oil followed by washing and removal of scales with comb
• Avoid topical steroids
• Consider immunosuppression or HIV in severe or widespread lesions

Disposition

• Outpatient

See Also

Neonatal Rashes