Diaper Rash Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is a Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash is a generic term applied to skin rashes in the diaper area that are caused by various skin disorders and/or irritants.

It is characterized by joined patches of erythema and scaling mainly seen on the convex surfaces, with the skin folds spared.

Diaper rash with secondary bacterial or fungal involvement tends to spread to concave surfaces (i.e. skin folds), as well as convex surfaces, and often exhibits a central red, beefy erythema with satellite pustules around the border.

Despite the word “diaper” in the name, the dermatitis is not due to the diaper itself, but to the materials trapped by the diaper (usually feces).

Causes of Diaper Rash:

Diaper rash can be caused by anything from a new food to the child’s own urine.

Some likely causes include:

Irritation from stool and urine.

Prolonged exposure to urine or stool can irritate a baby’s sensitive skin.

Chafing or rubbing.

Tight fitting diapers or clothing that rubs against the skin can lead to a rash.

Irritation from a new product.

Baby wipes
New brand of disposable diapers
Detergent
Bleach
Fabric softener

Bacterial or yeast (fungal) infection.

These rashes can be found within the creases of the skin, and there may be red dots scattered around the creases.

Introduction of new foods.

The content of the baby’s stool changes as he starts to intake solid food. This increases the likelihood of diaper rash.

Sensitive skin.

Babies with skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis or seborrhea dermatitis (eczema), may be more likely to develop diaper rash.

Use of antibiotics.

When a baby takes antibiotics, bacteria that keep yeast growth in check may be depleted, resulting in diaper rash due to yeast infection.
Antibiotic use also increases the risk of diarrhea.
Breast-fed babies whose mothers take antibiotics are also at increased risk of diaper rash.

Symptoms of Diaper Rash:

Diaper rash is known to exhibit the following symptoms:

Skin signs.

Diaper rash is marked by red, tender-looking skin in the diaper region — buttocks, thighs and genitals.

Changes in the baby’s disposition.

One might notice that the affected baby seems more uncomfortable than usual, especially during diaper changes. A baby with a diaper rash often fusses or cries when the diaper area is washed or touched.

Diagnosis of Diaper Rash:

Diagnosis is typically based on a history and physical examination of the rash. It is usually not necessary to perform lab testing. If the rash appears to be caused by an allergic response, the doctor may perform skin testing to determine the specific allergy-causing agent.